Cheesy Beef and Tomato Macaroni Bake
This scrumptious and hearty casserole creates the perfect combination of cheesy macaroni, savory beef, and rich Italian-seasoned tomatoes. A tried-and-true family favorite that's both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. The delightful melding of textures and flavors makes it a hit with both kids and adults, and it's quick to pull together, offering comfort and deliciousness in every bite.
4
Servings
450
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Kraft macaroni & cheese dinner mix
7 1/2 ounces (Prepare as directed on package)
Lean ground beef
1 lb (Browned and drained)
Italian-style stewed tomatoes
14 1/2 ounces (Undrained)
Dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon (Add to tomato mixture)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (Sprinkle over casserole)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large saucepan, prepare the macaroni and cheese according to the instructions on the package.
3
While the pasta cooks, use a large nonstick skillet to brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off excess fat once browned.
4
Add the undrained Italian-style stewed tomatoes and dried oregano to the beef. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
5
Combine the prepared macaroni and cheese with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir until well mixed.
6
Transfer the combined mixture into a 9-inch square baking dish.
7
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is thoroughly heated.
9
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
43.5g
Carbs
23.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Beef and Tomato Macaroni Bake?
It is a scrumptious and hearty casserole that combines cheesy macaroni, savory beef, and rich Italian-seasoned tomatoes.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake the casserole for approximately 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and it is heated through.
What is the main protein used in this dish?
The main protein is 1 pound of lean ground beef.
What type of macaroni and cheese is recommended?
The recipe calls for a 7.5-ounce package of Kraft macaroni and cheese dinner mix.
Should I drain the ground beef after browning?
Yes, you should drain off any excess fat once the ground beef has been browned.
Do I need to drain the Italian-style stewed tomatoes?
No, the tomatoes should be used undrained to add moisture and flavor to the beef mixture.
What seasoning is added to the beef and tomato mixture?
One-half teaspoon of dried oregano is added to the mixture.
What size baking dish should be used?
The recipe recommends using a 9-inch square baking dish.
How much cheese is used for the topping?
The topping requires 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Is this recipe budget-friendly?
Yes, it is described as a budget-friendly family favorite.
Is this dish suitable for children?
Yes, the recipe is specifically mentioned as being a hit with kids.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 20 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in one serving?
There are 43.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 23.75 grams of protein.
How should I prepare the macaroni and cheese mix?
Prepare the macaroni and cheese according to the instructions provided on the package.
At what point do I add the oregano?
Add the dried oregano to the beef after it has been browned and the tomatoes have been added.
Does the beef mixture need to boil?
Yes, after adding the tomatoes and oregano to the beef, you should bring the mixture to a boil.
When do I combine the pasta with the meat?
Combine the prepared macaroni and cheese with the beef and tomato mixture once the beef mixture has reached a boil.
Should I let the casserole cool before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to let the casserole cool slightly after removing it from the oven before serving.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized under Meat dishes.
How many total ingredients are needed?
There are 5 main ingredients in this recipe.
Is the ground beef browned over high heat?
The beef should be browned over medium-high heat.
What kind of tomatoes are specified?
The recipe specifies a 14.5-ounce can of Italian-style stewed tomatoes.
Can this be served as a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is noted as being perfect for busy weeknights because it is quick to pull together.
What is the texture of the dish?
The dish features a delightful melding of textures from the creamy macaroni, tender beef, and stewed tomatoes.
Is the cheddar cheese mixed into the pasta?
No, the shredded cheddar cheese is sprinkled evenly over the top of the casserole before baking.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include comfort food, casserole, easy dinner, family meal, cheesy, beef, macaroni, budget-friendly, and kids.