The Perfect Hamburger Macaroni

If using ground beef, brown in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s fully browned, drain and set aside.

Cook pasta according to the package directions and set aside.

Heat oil in the skillet. Add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add roasted tomatoes and tomato paste to pan. Stir to blend paste into the tomato liquid. Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, paprika, and salt and pepper if desired. Stir to combine.

Mix cooked ground beef or vegetarian crumbles into tomato mixture. Cook until sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.

Mix in shredded cheese. Once cheese melts into the sauce combine it with the cooked pasta.

If desired, top with another ½ cup shredded cheese and transfer to oven just until cheese melts.