Wayne's Beef Mac & Cheese - What's Cooking Wednesday

Step up your mac and cheese game with this beefy, cheesy, lick-the-plate-good recipe! This dish packs a flavorful punch with bell peppers, onions, garlic, basil, oregano, cumin, and tomatoes - all topped with baked cheese. What's not to love? -- INGREDIENTS 1 teaspoon each dried basil, cumin, and dried oregano salt and pepper, to taste 3 cup canned crushed tomatoes 2 lbs lean ground beef 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped 2 cups onion, chopped 2 cups green bell pepper, chopped 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 lb box elbow macaroni 2 to 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated PREPARATION Cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside. Heat the oil in a skillet; add the peppers, onion, and garlic, and saute until soft. Add the ground beef and sauté until browned. Add the tomatoes, salt and pepper to taste, and the basil, cumin, and oregano. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni and the beef mixture. Spread this mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Top with the cheese and bake at 350° for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly. Cook's Note: Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef, if desired. -- Watch the full video here: