Mild 'Sweet' Tomato Sauce with Elbow Macaroni Bake

Ground beef and pork sauteed with garlic and onion is simmered with tomato and mushrooms, with a bit of sugar and a whole carrot added for sweetness. Layered with cooked pasta and grated cheese, this substantial casserole makes a hearty meal.

• Calories: 532 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• ½ pound lean ground beef
• ½ clove garlic, minced
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• ½ pound ground pork
• 4 ounces canned mushrooms
• 1 carrot
• ¼ teaspoon white sugar
• ½ pound elbow macaroni, cooked

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Cook beef, pork, onion, and garlic in hot oil until onion is golden. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, mushrooms, carrot, salt, pepper, and sugar, and simmer 15 minutes.

Step 2

Remove the carrot and throw away--it is just there for sweetness.

Step 3

Alternate layers of macaroni, cheese, and meat in greased 2-quart casserole. Sprinkle top with cheese.

Step 4

Bake in a 350 degree F (175 degrees C) oven for 45 minutes.