Baked Macaroni with Meat and Cheese

Name: Baked Macaroni with Meat and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 300 grams macaroni (uncooked); 500 grams ground beef; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 can tomato sauce (398 mL); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)

55 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

Baked Macaroni with Meat and Cheese

This comforting baked macaroni combines tender pasta, savoury ground beef, and gooey cheese for a delightful family meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Baked Macaroni with Meat and Cheese is a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavours of ground beef and the creaminess of melted cheese. A staple in many households, this dish offers a warm and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of pasta, meat, and cheese creates a satisfying texture and taste that is both familiar and inviting. Whether you are feeding a crowd or preparing a weeknight dinner, this classic casserole will surely please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Servings

Pasta

Meat Sauce

Cheese Topping

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 6-7 minutes, until just slightly underdone. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Undercooking the pasta prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Pro tip: Ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Add Sauce and Seasonings

Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix cooked macaroni with the meat sauce in the skillet until well combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer macaroni mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Add Cheese Topping and Bake

Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Pro tip: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavour.</li><li>Undercook the pasta slightly as it will cook further in the oven.</li><li>Season the beef well to enhance the dish's depth of flavour.</li><li>Let the casserole rest before serving for easier slicing.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked macaroni with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs well with a light red wine or a refreshing iced tea. To make ahead, prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.