01 -
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
02 -
Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 -
Heat olive oil in a pan, add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and ground beef, season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
04 -
In another pan, melt butter, add flour, and stir for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in cheddar and half of the mozzarella until melted and smooth.
05 -
Combine macaroni, beef mixture, cheese sauce, and bacon (if using).
06 -
Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella.
07 -
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
08 -
Garnish with parsley and let rest a few minutes before serving.