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Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef
**Ingredients:**
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– **For the Macaroni:**
– 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– **For the Ground Beef Layer:**
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Macaroni:**
– Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce:**
– In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
– Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
– Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella cheese, and continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
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3. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
– Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon.
– Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. **Assemble the Casserole:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a baking dish or individual oven-safe bowls, layer the macaroni and cheese at the bottom.
– Top the macaroni layer with the ground beef mixture.
– Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
5. **Bake:**
– Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
6. **Serve:**
– Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
This baked macaroni and cheese with ground beef is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Enjoy!
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