🌟 Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Zesty Italian Macaroni
A super-easy, cheesy baked pasta with bold Italian flavor—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
đź›’ Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 jar (24 oz / 680 g) zesty Italian pasta sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
👩‍🍳 Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain well.
Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
Combine the cooked macaroni, browned beef, and Italian pasta sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with mozzarella cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Let stand for 5 minutes, then scoop and serve.
🍽️ Optional additions
Although the basic recipe only needs 4 ingredients, you can add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, Parmesan, sautéed onions, or bell peppers if desired.
Serves: 6–8
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 30–35 minutes
Total: About 40–45 minutes
