HEARTY MACARONI CASSEROLE

Hearty Macaroni Casserole image

Give Jack Frost the cold shoulder by setting a comforting hot dish on the table. This hearty meal-in-one will satisfy even the biggest of appetites. Enjoy one casserole and freeze the other, or serve them both when entertaining. -Joy Sauers, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 50m

Yield 2 casseroles (4 servings each).

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

1 package (7-1/4 ounces) macaroni and cheese dinner mix
1 pound ground beef
1 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Italian diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup French-fried onions

Steps:

Prepare macaroni and cheese according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the beef, green pepper and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add to prepared macaroni. Stir in tomatoes., Divide half of mixture between two greased 1-1/2-qt. baking dishes; sprinkle each with 1/2 cup cheese. Top with remaining mixture., Sprinkle remaining cheese over one casserole. Cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Sprinkle the second casserole with French-fried onions. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30 minutes or until heated through., To use frozen casserole: Completely thaw in the refrigerator. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake as directed.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 470 calories, Fat 29g fat (18g saturated fat), Cholesterol 115mg cholesterol, Sodium 795mg sodium, Carbohydrate 25g carbohydrate (7g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 28g protein.