Craving a comforting, cheesy macaroni dish but want to elevate it beyond the ordinary? This Beefy Cheesy Macaroni recipe is the perfect answer! It's a delicious blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the heartiness of ground beef, making it a satisfying meal for any night of the week. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and the whole family will love it. Get ready to enjoy a homemade cooking experience that's both quick and incredibly rewarding!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. This step builds the flavor base of our delicious dish.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the tomato soup and beef broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat, and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This slow simmering process creates a rich and flavorful sauce.
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Cook the Macaroni: While the sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain the pasta well.
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Combine and Melt: Add the cooked macaroni to the beef and tomato sauce mixture. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of milk or cream at this stage.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Beefy Cheesy Macaroni immediately. Garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. This hearty and healthy meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beefy Cheesy Macaroni:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- For a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water before adding it to the sauce during the simmering process.
- Don't overcook the macaroni! It should be al dente, not mushy.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Make it a Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. This transforms it into a comforting casserole.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This Beefy Cheesy Macaroni recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that showcases the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy!