Posted at http://mynew30.blogspot.com/
1 package generic boxed macaroni and cheese, reserve cheese packet
1 Tablespoon olive oil
¼ of a Vidalia onion, chopped
¼ of a medium green bell pepper, chopped
¼ of a medium red bell pepper, chopped
1 large clove of garlic, chopped
1 lb. ground beef
1 ½ T. chili powder
1 t. seasoned salt
One 14 ½ ounce can diced tomatoes
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Pepper jack or cheddar cheese
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil for the macaroni noodles, adding a large pinch of kosher salt. Boil according to package directions, drain and set aside. Reserve the cheese sauce package - you will be stirring that in later.
In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium heat, add onion, green and red pepper and sauté until tender. Toss in garlic and sauté just a bit longer, but to avoid bitterness, do not scorch. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as you go. Drain off any fat from meat mixture if necessary and then return it to the pan. Stir in chili powder and seasoned salt.
Add the cheese packet and diced tomatoes to the meat mixture, stir until mixed thoroughly, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Spray a 9 x 9 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and pour meat and pasta mixture in. Sprinkle the top lightly with just enough cheese to add a bit of flavor and bake uncovered at 350 degrees for about 25 -30 minutes, or until bubbly.
