One-Pot Beef and Macaroni: A Comforting, Easy Dinner

This One-Pot Beef and Macaroni is a cozy, flavorful dish that combines tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. The addition of garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning brings classic, comforting flavors, while everything cooks together in one pot for ultimate convenience.

Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a touch of indulgence, and you’ve got yourself a hearty, satisfying meal that’s ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes make cleanup a breeze.
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
3. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the combination of beef, pasta, and tomato sauce.
4. Customizable: Add veggies, spices, or even cheese to suit your taste.
5. Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Base:

• 1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef works best to keep the dish hearty but not overly greasy.
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked: The pasta cooks directly in the flavorful sauce, absorbing all the goodness.

For the Vegetables:

• 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch to the dish.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Enhances the savory flavor base.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant, aromatic depth to the sauce.

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings a slightly chunky texture and tanginess.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich base for the pasta.
• 2 cups beef broth: Helps cook the pasta while adding a savory, beefy flavor.

For Seasoning:

• 1 tsp paprika: Adds warmth and a mild smoky flavor.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that enhances the tomato sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Adjusted at the end for perfect seasoning.

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
3. Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef.
2. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring it into the sauce.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Cook until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Serve the beef and macaroni hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch.

Chef Tips for Success

1. Stir Often: Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from sticking or burning.
2. Adjust the Liquid: If the mixture looks too dry as the pasta cooks, add a splash of water or broth.
3. Use Quality Broth: Beef broth adds depth to the dish, so choose a flavorful one for the best results.
4. Cheesy Topping: For extra indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella on top and let it melt before serving.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes off the heat before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.

Customizations and Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Add Veggies:

• Zucchini or Mushrooms: Sauté alongside the onions and bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh greens during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added color and flavor.

Switch the Protein:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Use a leaner option to lighten up the dish.
• Plant-Based Meat: Replace the ground beef with a vegetarian alternative for a meat-free version.

Spice it Up:

• Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Make it Cheesy:

• Mix in shredded cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan, during the last few minutes of cooking.

Experiment with Pasta:

• Substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta shapes, like rotini, penne, or shells.

What to Serve with One-Pot Beef and Macaroni

This hearty dish pairs well with simple sides for a complete meal. Here are some suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for extra nutrients.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s an estimate for one serving of One-Pot Beef and Macaroni (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

2. Can I freeze One-Pot Beef and Macaroni?

Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

3. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Whole wheat or gluten-free elbow macaroni works perfectly. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as these pastas may cook faster or slower than regular pasta.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add extra beans, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat for a hearty alternative.

5. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Beef and Macaroni is a comforting, hearty classic that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. With simple ingredients and a quick cook time, it’s the perfect solution for busy nights when you need a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal. Customize it with your favorite add-ins, pair it with your go-to sides, and enjoy every bite of this rich and flavorful dish. Happy cooking! 🥘🍝🧄

Print