Ingredients

　　One 1-pound box elbow macaroni

　　2 tablespoons vegetable oil

　　2 cups chopped green bell pepper

　　2 cups chopped onion

　　1 tablespoon chopped garlic

　　2 pounds lean ground beef

　　3 cups canned crushed tomatoes

　　Salt and pepper

　　1 teaspoon each dried basil, cumin, and dried oregano

　　2–3 cups grated Cheddar cheese

　　Cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside. Heat the oil in a skillet; add the peppers, onion, and garlic, and sauté until soft. Add the ground beef and sauté until browned. Add the tomatoes, salt and pepper to taste, and the basil, cumin, and oregano. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni and the beef mixture. Spread this mixture in a 9 × 13-inch baking dish. Top with the cheese and bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly. Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef, if desired.

　　Paula Deen's Kitchen Classics