Beefy Macaroni and Cheese Bake Recipe
Overview:
This Beefy Macaroni and Cheese Bake recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings on a chilly evening. It combines tender elbow macaroni, savory lean ground beef, flavorful herbs, and gooey melted cheddar cheese for a mouthwatering meal that will please the whole family. With a total time of just 40 minutes, including prep and cooking, it’s a quick and easy option for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 1/2 cups |
| Onion | 1 |
| Lean ground beef | 1 pound |
| Tomatoes | 1 |
| Thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 395.7
- Fat: 18.9g
- Saturated Fat: 8.8g
- Cholesterol: 77.5mg
- Sodium: 202.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 29.4g
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Sugar: 3.2g
- Protein: 26.3g
Instructions:
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Cook the Macaroni: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside for later use.
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Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large frying pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté it until it becomes softened and translucent. Next, add the lean ground beef to the pan and cook it until it’s nicely browned.
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Add Flavorful Ingredients: To the cooked beef and onion mixture, add the diced tomatoes, thyme, dried oregano, and salt to taste. Allow the ingredients to simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.
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Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate small saucepan, whisk together the flour and milk until well combined. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for an additional minute, then remove it from the heat and stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and incorporated.
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Combine Everything: Stir the cheesy milk mixture into the meat sauce until everything is evenly combined. Then, add the cooked macaroni to the pan and gently fold it into the sauce until it’s well coated.
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the beefy macaroni and cheese mixture into a prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Place the dish in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) and bake until the cheese is melted and golden brown, which should take about 20 minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the Beefy Macaroni and Cheese Bake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates and savor each cheesy, beefy bite.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Pair with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread for mopping up any remaining sauce on the plate.
Conclusion:
This Beefy Macaroni and Cheese Bake recipe is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation. With its simple preparation and irresistible flavor, it’s bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this comforting dish is guaranteed to leave everyone feeling satisfied and content. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful!
