This loaded mac and cheese, featuring ground beef, diced tomatoes, marinara, and a blend of cheeses, is a hearty side dish that can easily become a main course, perfect for a Thanksgiving menu or any family meal.
Preheat smoker to 300F (or oven to 350F).
Start with the noodles by boiling a large pot of water and cooking for about 9-11 minutes. Drain and rinse with cool water to prevent noodles from sticking together.
In a dutch oven, cook down onions for 5 minutes, add garlic and beef. Once cooked, add in diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, salt and pepper to taste.
While that cools for 5 minutes, grate the cheese, then add noodles into the sauce. Mix well.
In a 9x13 baking dish, alternate cheese, mac, and basil until full, then top with crispy fried onions.
Place in the oven or smoker for 30 minutes (temps above) or until hot and melty. Enjoy!
