Wayne's Beef Macaroni and Cheese

I don't know what it is about Paula Deen's cooking but I am starting to become addicted to it. My husband has always liked Paula and has been watching her on Food Network for quite a while. He's been bringing home copies of her recipes often lately and even bought me a Paula cookbook for Mother's Day. Could that be a hint? If so, it's working!!! This recipe comes from Paula Deen's Kitchen Classics. I've made several of the recipes in the book and all have been really good. They've all turned out well. This is a very hearty dish that does go a long way and is great with a side salad and some thick crusty bread! Both my son and husband enjoyed it! I would definitely say this is kid friendly.

One 1 lb box elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups chopped green pepper
2 cups chopped onion
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
2 lbs 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 directions; drain and set aside. Heat the oil in the skillet; add peppers, onion and garlic and saute until soft. Add the ground beef and saute until browned. Add the tomatoes, salt and pepper to taste and basil, cumin and oregano. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni and the beef mixture. Spread this mixture in a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Top with the cheese and bake at 350 degrees F 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.