Hearty Mac & Cheese

Total Time

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 25 min.

Makes

6 servings

Updated: Sep. 15, 2023
“Whether a cold winter night or rainy summer day, this is quick-and-easy comfort food at its very best!” And a great way to jazz up boxed macaroni mix. —Carol Wohlgemuth, Riding Mountain, Manitoba
Hearty Mac & Cheese Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 1 package (7-1/4 ounces) macaroni and cheese dinner mix
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 3 tablespoons chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green pepper
  • 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed tomato soup, undiluted
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 teaspoons prepared mustard
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup butter, cubed
  • 1/4 cup 2% milk

Directions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions; set cheese packet aside. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the beef, onion and green pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender; drain.
  2. Add the soup, water, ketchup, mustard and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 4 minutes.
  3. Drain macaroni; add to beef mixture. Add the corn, cheese, contents of reserved cheese packet, butter and milk. Cook and stir until cheese and butter are melted.

Nutrition Facts

1 cup: 480 calories, 24g fat (13g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 1253mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.