If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dinner that comes together in one pan with layers of savory flavors and that irresistible cheesy finish, the Cheesy One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe is your new best friend. This dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato and broth base, all topped off with melty cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s a family-friendly meal that fills the kitchen with amazing aromas and satisfies appetites without a mountain of dishes to clean afterward. Let me walk you through this amazingly simple, delicious recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its approachable and everyday ingredients that come together to create a big flavor impact. Each component plays an essential role in making the dish rich, colorful, and perfectly textured.
- Olive oil: Helps brown the beef beautifully and brings out its richness without being overpowering.
- Ground beef: The hearty base that makes this skillet meal satisfying and protein-packed.
- Chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- Minced garlic: Perfumes the dish with its classic warm aroma.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.
- Paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbal note that rounds out the tomato base.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds richness.
- Diced tomatoes: Provide juiciness and a fresh burst of tomato goodness.
- Tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, saucy texture perfect for coating the pasta.
- Beef broth: Important for simmering the macaroni to tender perfection and infuses an extra meatiness.
- Uncooked elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto the sauce and cheese.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For that melty, creamy finish that takes this skillet to comfort food heaven.
- Chopped parsley: A fresh, bright garnish to lift each spoonful.
How to Make Cheesy One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Add the ground beef and let it cook until it’s perfectly browned, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. This step locks in the savory flavor and creates a flavorful base for the rest of your skillet. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep it from getting greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. The garlic will fill your kitchen with that mouthwatering fragrance that’s hard to resist. These aromatics build the foundation for the rich tomato sauce to come.
Step 3: Season and Add Tomato Base
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning, stirring everything well so the spices fully coat the beef and onions. Then stir in the tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. These bring a layered tomato flavor and vibrant red color that make the skillet so inviting.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Macaroni
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Now’s the time to add the uncooked elbow macaroni, giving everything a good stir to combine. Cover the skillet and let it cook over medium-low heat for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Garnish
If you’re going for that extra cheesy touch, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir it through until it melts into gooey perfection. Finish by scattering fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Your Cheesy One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe is now ready to serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate both the look and taste of this skillet. A generous sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a vibrant green contrast and a mild herbal brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. You could also add sliced green onions or a little dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you like to spice things up.
Side Dishes
This hearty main dish pairs wonderfully with lighter sides to balance the meal. A crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, some steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables all complement the rich, cheesy skillet perfectly. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that saucy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skillet straight from the pan at the table for a rustic, family-style vibe. If you’re entertaining, you could scoop portions into individual mini cast-iron skillets for a charming single-serving presentation. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a scoop of guacamole on top can also bring in an unexpected but delicious creamy element.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cheesy One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe makes fantastic leftovers. Transfer any uneaten portions into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, making your second helping even more delicious.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the skillet completely, then pack portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave out the fresh parsley garnish if freezing, so it stays fresh and bright when added after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture feels too thick. You can also microwave individual servings, covering loosely to retain moisture. If you left out the cheese when freezing, add it fresh before serving for that perfect melty finish.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken work wonderfully for a lighter version, and you can also try plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just adjust seasoning as needed.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this recipe?
For sure! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach are all great additions. Add them when you sauté the onions so they soften nicely and blend into the dish seamlessly.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Elbow macaroni is classic here because it holds the sauce well, but you can swap in small shells, rotini, or penne if you prefer. Just keep cooking time in mind and check for doneness.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply skip the cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. The skillet is still delicious without cheese, thanks to the rich tomato and beef base.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking during cooking?
Stir the skillet occasionally while the macaroni cooks and make sure there’s enough broth to keep it moist. Covering helps the pasta steam and cook evenly too.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe is the ultimate weeknight winner that’s as tasty as it is effortless. It’s a wonderful blend of comforting flavors, hearty ingredients, and luscious cheese all mingled in one easy pan. I truly hope you try making this dish soon because it’s guaranteed to become a favorite for dinner rotations and quick meal fixes. Enjoy the magic of simple cooking with big, satisfying results!
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Cheesy One-Pot Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This hearty Macaroni and Beef recipe is a comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is browned and simmered with tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and beef broth, then cooked together with elbow macaroni until tender. Finished with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a delicious, kid-friendly dish that’s simple to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, developing the base flavors of the dish.
- Season the Meat Mixture: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning over the beef mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and enhance the flavor profile.
- Add Tomato Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors and prepare for cooking the macaroni.
- Cook the Macaroni: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the simmering sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged and evenly coated. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and cook over medium-low heat for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the mixture, adding a rich, creamy finish to the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh and colorful garnish. Serve the macaroni and beef warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter, leaner version.
- Add chopped bell peppers or carrots to incorporate extra vegetables and nutrients.
- This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prepping and leftovers.
