Creamy Beef and Tomato Macaroni Bake
Elevate your comfort food game with this Creamy Beef and Tomato Macaroni Bake. A delightful twist on traditional macaroni and cheese, this dish combines rich ground beef, zesty diced tomatoes, and creamy cheese to create a hearty meal that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. Add your favorite veggies for an extra nutritional boost and enjoy a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Macaroni and cheese mix
1 (5 ounce box (avoid the cheap mix))
Milk
1/4 (cup)
Butter or margarine
1/4 (cup (not spread or tub product))
Onion
1/2 (cup diced)
Ground beef
1 (lb)
Diced tomatoes
1 (14 ounce can)
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Garlic
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the macaroni from the box according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or margarine and sauté the diced onions until they are translucent.
3
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
4
Stir in the cooked macaroni into the beef mixture, followed by the drained can of diced tomatoes. Mix thoroughly.
5
Let the mixture heat through for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If desired, add in any additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach at this stage.
6
Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Creamy Beef and Tomato Macaroni Bake!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Beef and Tomato Macaroni Bake?
It is a hearty comfort food dish that combines ground beef, a macaroni and cheese mix, and diced tomatoes for a flavorful one-pot meal.
What kind of macaroni and cheese mix should I use?
The recipe recommends a 5-ounce box of macaroni and cheese mix and suggests avoiding the cheaper varieties for better quality.
How much ground beef is needed for this recipe?
You will need 1 pound of ground beef.
Should I drain the diced tomatoes?
Yes, the instructions specify using a drained can of diced tomatoes.
How much milk is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of milk.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use butter or margarine, but avoid using spread or tub products.
How do I prepare the onions?
You should use 1/2 cup of diced onion and saute them in melted butter until translucent.
How long does it take to cook the ground beef?
The ground beef should be cooked for about 6-8 minutes until it is browned and fully cooked through.
What seasonings are used in this dish?
The beef is seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
Should I drain the fat from the beef?
Yes, you should drain the excess fat after the beef is fully cooked.
When do I add the cooked macaroni?
The cooked macaroni is stirred into the skillet after the beef has been browned and drained.
Can I add extra vegetables to this bake?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during the final heating stage for extra nutrition.
How long should the mixture heat once everything is combined?
Let the mixture heat through for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is described as a one-pot wonder that is easy to prepare and clean up.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, it is a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a leaner protein.
What size can of tomatoes is used?
The recipe uses one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes.
How much butter is needed?
You will need 1/4 cup of butter or margarine.
Do I cook the macaroni before adding it to the skillet?
Yes, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions and drain it before mixing it with the beef.
What is the first step of the recipe?
The first step is to cook and drain the macaroni from the box mix.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can use either fresh garlic or garlic seasoning to taste while browning the beef.
Does this recipe require an oven?
Despite being called a 'bake', the instructions describe a stovetop preparation in a large skillet.
What makes the dish 'creamy'?
The creaminess comes from the cheese sauce provided in the macaroni mix combined with the milk and butter.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well and can be reheated easily for later consumption.
How much onion should I dice?
The recipe specifies using 1/2 cup of diced onion.
Can I make this dish spicy?
You can add red pepper flakes or use a 'zesty' version of diced tomatoes to add some heat.
What kind of skillet should I use?
A large skillet is recommended to accommodate the beef, macaroni, and tomatoes.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total, including the seasonings.
Can I use whole milk?
Yes, whole milk works well and will contribute to a richer, creamier texture.
How do I serve the macaroni bake?
Serve it warm directly from the skillet for the best experience.