If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that comes together quickly and fills the house with irresistible aromas, you’re in for a treat with this One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Recipe. This dish combines savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato base all cooked together in a single pot, making it a perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe truly hits the spot every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients is the first step toward a satisfying meal. Each one plays a vital role, balancing taste, texture, and vibrant color to elevate this dish beyond ordinary casserole fare.
- 1-1/2 pounds ground beef: The hearty protein base that brings rich flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 2 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce: Creates a luscious, tangy sauce that coats the macaroni perfectly.
- 1 cup water: Helps the macaroni cook evenly and keeps the dish saucy.
- 1 package (7 ounces) macaroni: Classic pasta that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper: Adds a touch of crunch and fresh color contrast.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a subtle umami boost and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth to round out the taste.
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onions, cooking until the beef loses its pink color and is browned all over. As you cook, break the meat into small crumbles using a wooden spoon to ensure even browning. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy, but leave enough to keep all the flavor locked in.
Step 2: Combine the Rest of the Ingredients
Now comes the magic moment where everything comes together. Stir in your tomato sauce, water, uncooked macaroni, chopped green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper directly into the skillet. Mixing everything in one pot means the macaroni will absorb all those delicious juices as it cooks, giving you a rich, unified flavor profile.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll want to keep an eye on the texture of the macaroni, making sure it’s tender but not mushy. If it looks like the mixture is drying out before the pasta is done, add a splash more water to maintain the saucy consistency you love.
How to Serve One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Recipe
Garnishes
After all that tasty simmering, a sprinkle of fresh garnish can bring your One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Recipe alive. Try some chopped fresh parsley or a shower of grated Parmesan cheese to add brightness and a touch of indulgent flavor that contrasts beautifully with the hearty beef and tomato base.
Side Dishes
Complement your meal with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to provide refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also pair wonderfully, soaking up any leftover saucy goodness that the macaroni doesn’t quite finish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, serve this recipe straight from the skillet in the center of the table for a rustic, comforting vibe. Alternatively, plate it elegantly in shallow bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a few sliced olives for an extra special touch that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Recipe store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even better after a day, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Just portion out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwaving in short bursts and stirring in between works great to keep the texture consistent and prevent drying.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional and holds sauce nicely, small pasta shapes like shells, elbow elbows, or small penne can work just as well. Just keep an eye on your cooking time, as different shapes may cook slightly faster or slower.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! To turn the One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Recipe into a vegetarian meal, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms and lentils. Adjust seasoning accordingly for best results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the beef or stir in a dash of hot sauce just before serving. You can also include diced jalapeños for a fresher heat that complements the tomato sauce.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and reheat it for a party?
Definitely! This recipe is excellent for making ahead. Prepare it fully, then refrigerate or freeze and reheat gently when you’re ready. It is perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.
What can I add to increase the nutritional value?
Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach. Stir them in with the peppers when you add the sauce so they cook tender and blend effortlessly into the dish.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Recipe has such a wonderful way of bringing people together over a shared bowl of comforting goodness. It’s quick, easy, and packed with familiar flavors that feel like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, I can’t recommend giving this cozy meal a try. You’ll quickly discover just how satisfying one pot can be!
Print
One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and easy one-pot macaroni and beef recipe that combines ground beef, macaroni, and flavorful tomato sauce for a comforting meal ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe requires minimal cleanup and delivers satisfying taste with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1–1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 package (7 ounces) macaroni
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, breaking the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat from the skillet to ensure a leaner dish.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, water, uncooked macaroni, chopped green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef and onions, mixing everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the macaroni for tenderness and add additional water if the mixture becomes too thick or begins to stick.
Notes
- Be sure to stir occasionally during simmering to avoid the macaroni sticking to the pan.
- You can add additional vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste after cooking.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
