Step 1

Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven to medium heat. Add the onion and peppers and cook 3-4 minutes to soften.

Step 2

Add the ground beef and break apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5 minutes, until browned and mostly cooked through.

Step 3

Add the garlic, Italian seasonings, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using) and salt and pepper to taste. Cook 1 minute, stirring, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the spices bloom.

Step 4

Add the roasted tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf, and salt and pepper. Also add optional hot sauce, if using. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Cover and simmer 20 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Step 6

Stir in the macaroni noodles and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally for 20 minutes, or until the noodles are softened to your liking.

Step 7

For a cheesy version, stir in cheese and cook until nicely melted through, 2-3 minutes.