Craving something hearty, comforting, and utterly delicious? Look no further! Our roundup of 18 Delicious Ground Beef and Macaroni Recipes is here to save your dinner plans. From quick weeknight meals to cozy weekend feasts, these dishes are sure to please every palate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just whipping up something for yourself, get ready to fall in love with these easy-to-make, flavor-packed recipes. Let’s dig in!
Classic Beef and Macaroni Casserole
This Classic Beef and Macaroni Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground beef with tender pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper, and 2 cloves minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in 1 can tomato sauce, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook 2 cups elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture and 1/2 cup water. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
The magic of this casserole lies in its layers of flavor, from the savory beef and vegetables to the gooey, melted cheese topping that makes every bite irresistible.
Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Spicy Macaroni and Beef Skillet
Craving something hearty with a kick? This Spicy Macaroni and Beef Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’ll spice up your weeknight dinner routine.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes, or until macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let sit for 2 minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
The smoky paprika and melted cheese create a comforting layer of flavors that’s hard to resist. Perfect for those nights when you want maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic.
Cheesy Ground Beef Macaroni Bake
This Cheesy Ground Beef Macaroni Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce for a dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Stir the cooked macaroni, diced tomatoes with their juice, and 1/2 cup milk into the skillet with the beef. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
The magic of this bake lies in the juicy tomatoes melding with the cheeses, creating a sauce that’s rich yet surprisingly light.
Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
One-Pot Ground Beef and Macaroni
Nothing beats the comfort of a hearty, one-pot meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This One-Pot Ground Beef and Macaroni is a weeknight savior, combining rich flavors and simple cleanup in one go.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add the elbow macaroni, beef broth, diced tomatoes, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp paprika to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the macaroni cooking right in the flavorful broth, absorbing all the delicious tastes for a truly satisfying meal.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other spices.
Healthy Turkey and Macaroni Alternative
Looking for a lighter twist on the classic comfort food? This Healthy Turkey and Macaroni Alternative swaps out heavy creams for a leaner, protein-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, onion, and garlic. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni, Parmesan cheese, and spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
The secret to this dish’s rich flavor? Simmering the turkey with tomatoes and herbs creates a sauce that’s both light and deeply satisfying.
Tip: For an extra kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.
Quick and Easy Beef Macaroni Soup
Warm up your evening with this comforting Quick and Easy Beef Macaroni Soup, a hearty dish that’s ready in no time and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and frozen mixed vegetables. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
This soup stands out with its perfect blend of tender macaroni and savory beef, all brought together in a rich, tomato-based broth that’s irresistibly comforting.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the oregano and salt.
Gourmet Macaroni with Beef and Truffle Oil
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this luxurious twist featuring savory beef and a drizzle of truffle oil for that gourmet touch.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp truffle oil
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- In the same skillet, stir in the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Mix well until the cheese is melted and everything is combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Drizzle with truffle oil before serving. The truffle oil adds an earthy depth that transforms this classic dish into something truly special.
Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the macaroni for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Beef and Macaroni Stuffed Peppers
These Beef and Macaroni Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef and tender macaroni, all nestled inside sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers, any color
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Stir in salt, black pepper, and oregano.
- Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add to the beef mixture along with diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Spoon the beef and macaroni mixture into the bell peppers. Top each with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
The melty cheese and the slight crunch of the pepper create a delightful contrast that makes this dish a standout. Perfect for a cozy dinner that feels like a hug in a dish.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture before stuffing the peppers.
Slow Cooker Beef Macaroni Stew
Nothing says comfort like a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Macaroni Stew, perfect for those busy days when you want a fuss-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef stew meat and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme to the slow cooker. Pour in beef broth and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Stir in elbow macaroni, cover, and cook on HIGH for an additional 20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
The magic of this stew lies in the slow cooker doing all the work, melding the flavors together while the macaroni adds a comforting, hearty texture that’s irresistibly satisfying.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Macaroni and Beef with Hidden Veggies
Who says comfort food can’t be sneaky healthy? This Macaroni and Beef with Hidden Veggies is a crowd-pleaser that packs in the goodness without skimping on flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup finely grated carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped spinach
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in grated carrots and chopped spinach, cooking for another 2 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.
- Pour in tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Combine the beef and vegetable mixture with the cooked macaroni. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired. The hidden veggies blend seamlessly into the rich and cheesy sauce, making this dish a hit with picky eaters.
Tip: For an extra veggie boost, try adding finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini to the mix—they’ll disappear into the sauce just like the carrots and spinach!
BBQ Beef Macaroni Salad
This BBQ Beef Macaroni Salad is a hearty, flavorful twist on the classic picnic side, perfect for those who love a smoky, tangy kick in their pasta salads.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in 1/2 cup BBQ sauce until the beef is evenly coated. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooled macaroni, BBQ beef, 1/2 cup diced red onion, 1/2 cup diced celery, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley to the bowl. Toss until everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The smoky BBQ beef paired with the creamy, tangy dressing creates a unforgettable flavor profile that stands out at any gathering.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add some diced pickles or jalapeños right before serving.
Beef and Macaroni Pie with Puff Pastry
This Beef and Macaroni Pie with Puff Pastry is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty flavors with a flaky, buttery crust that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup diced bell pepper, and 2 cloves minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, then stir in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp paprika.
- Mix the cooked beef with 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, then spread the mixture into the prepared pie dish.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet to fit over the pie dish, trimming any excess. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the creamy macaroni filling and the crisp, flaky pastry top, making it a showstopper at any dinner table.
Tip: For an extra crispy crust, place the pie dish on a preheated baking sheet before putting it in the oven.
Mexican Style Beef and Macaroni
Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Mexican Style Beef and Macaroni, a comforting dish that blends the richness of ground beef with the zest of Mexican spices.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let sit for 2 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the one-pot method, which infuses the macaroni with all the bold flavors of the beef and spices, creating a deeply satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic at the beginning.
Beef Macaroni with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Beef Macaroni, smothered in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Remove beef and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and mushrooms, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring to combine. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, mixing well.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
The magic of this dish lies in the velvety mushroom sauce that clings to every noodle, offering a luxurious twist on classic beef macaroni.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try using a mix of wild mushrooms like shiitake or cremini.
Baked Macaroni and Beef with Three Cheeses
Nothing says comfort like a hearty baked macaroni and beef dish, especially when it’s loaded with three kinds of cheese for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and heavy cream, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked macaroni and beef mixture in the prepared baking dish. Top with cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
The trio of cheeses creates a luxurious texture that’s irresistibly gooey, while the beef adds a savory depth that elevates this classic dish.
Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the macaroni for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Beef and Macaroni with a Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
Comfort food gets an upgrade with this Beef and Macaroni dish, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb layer that adds the perfect crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink. Stir in the diced tomatoes, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni mixture.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the tender macaroni and beef beneath and the crispy, cheesy breadcrumb topping that crowns it.
Tip: For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
Macaroni and Beef with a Kick of Chili
Spice up your dinner routine with this hearty Macaroni and Beef, where a kick of chili brings warmth and depth to every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- Add cooked macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, cover, and let sit for 2 minutes until cheese melts.
The chili powder not only adds a gentle heat but also deepens the beef’s flavor, making this dish a comforting yet exciting weeknight meal.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic.
Beef and Macaroni in a Rich Tomato Sauce
Nothing says comfort like a hearty bowl of Beef and Macaroni in a Rich Tomato Sauce, a dish that combines the heartiness of beef with the comforting embrace of pasta in a velvety tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, sugar, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add to the pot with the beef and tomato sauce.
- Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the perfect balance of sweetness from the tomatoes and the savory depth of the beef, all hugged by the tender macaroni.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try browning the ground beef in batches to get a nice sear before adding it to the sauce.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 18 delicious ground beef and macaroni recipes inspires your next meal! Perfect for any occasion, these dishes are sure to please. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article to your Pinterest boards for easy access. Happy cooking!