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Best Easy Beefy Tomato and Macaroni Bake Recipe

Name: Best Easy Beefy Tomato and Macaroni Bake Recipe
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 270 g
Ingredients: ground beef 1 lb; elbow macaroni 2 cups; shredded cheddar cheese 1.5 cups; onion 1 pieces; diced tomatoes 14.5 oz; tomato sauce 15 oz; garlic powder 1 tsp; dried oregano 1 tsp; salt 0.75 tsp; black pepper 0.5 tsp

Beefy tomato and macaroni bake combines ground beef, tender pasta, and tomato sauce in a family-friendly casserole. This protein-packed, budget-friendly dinner is a nostalgic classic that comes together quickly.

Cook 55 min Difficulty EASY 380 kcal

#high protein #family dinner #budget friendly

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

ground beef 1 lb
elbow macaroni 2 cups
shredded cheddar cheese 1.5 cups
onion 1 pieces
diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
tomato sauce 15 oz

Seasonings/Sauce

garlic powder 1 tsp
dried oregano 1 tsp
salt 0.75 tsp
black pepper 0.5 tsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 36 g 38%

Protein 22 g 23%

Fat 16 g 39%

Serving size 270g

Cooking steps

1

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2

Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water for 5–6 minutes, until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
4

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir, reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
5

Combine the cooked macaroni and beef mixture in the baking dish. Mix gently, then top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.
6

Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in this Beefy Tomato and Macaroni Bake recipe?

The main ingredient is ground beef, providing a hearty, savory base and making this dish both protein packed and satisfying. Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes add tangy flavor and moisture, while macaroni brings tender texture.

Q. Which seasoning gives this casserole its distinct flavor?

Garlic powder and dried oregano are essential for the classic Italian-inspired flavor. Combined with salt and black pepper, these seasonings create a robust, aromatic profile that elevates the beef and tomato mixture.

Q. How should I control heat for perfect texture during cooking?

When browning the ground beef and onion, use medium-high heat and stir occasionally to avoid burning and ensure even cooking. For macaroni, boil just until al dente (about 5–6 minutes) so the pasta stays firm after baking. Don’t overcook to maintain a pleasant bite.

Q. What helps prevent dry or mushy casserole in this recipe?

To prevent dryness, make sure the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes are well incorporated into the beef mixture for sufficient moisture. Underbake the pasta just slightly before combining, and avoid over-baking; letting the casserole rest briefly before serving allows flavors to set and cheese to firm up without becoming rubbery.

Q. How many calories and what is the protein-to-carb ratio per serving?

Each serving contains about 380 kcal with 22g protein (23%) and 36g carbohydrates (38%). This makes it a high protein option for family dinner, balancing muscle-friendly nutrients and satisfying carbs.

Best Easy Beefy Tomato and Macaroni Bake Recipe

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