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If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely need to try this Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe. It’s a delightful medley of tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni all melded together with flavorful herbs and a touch of smoky paprika. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family dinner, this recipe comes together quickly and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas that promise a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With simple, everyday ingredients, this dish proves how easy it is to create something delicious and satisfying. Each item plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this skillet so special.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that brings savory richness and heartiness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften veggies while adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and layers of flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Offers a crisp, fresh bite and vibrant color.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Provides juicy bursts and bright acidity to balance richness.
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a luscious, saucy base for the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a subtle smoky depth and beautiful color.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold the sauce and beef lovingly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds creamy, melty goodness on top for extra indulgence.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, herbal garnish that brightens each bite.
How to Make Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente, which means tender but still with a firm bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish. This step ensures the pasta is perfectly textured and ready to soak up all those rich flavors later on.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks so that every bit is evenly cooked and flavorful. If there’s excess fat, drain it carefully to keep the dish hearty but not greasy. This step builds the savory foundation of your skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
To the browned beef, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté everything together for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the peppers begin to soften. This mixture infuses the beef with sweet and savory notes, creating complexity in every bite.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend beautifully while the sauce thickens slightly. This step transforms simple ingredients into a rich, comforting base.
Step 5: Combine Macaroni and Cheese
Add the cooked macaroni directly into the skillet and stir to combine it thoroughly with the beef and tomato sauce. If you love cheesy dishes, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let the cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes. This step takes the Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe from good to downright irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your dish with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. Not only does the parsley add a lovely burst of green color, but it also contributes a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness of the skillet. Serve this wonderful dish hot and watch it disappear quickly!
How to Serve Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the easy, go-to garnish that brightens each plate visually and flavor-wise. For extra flair, try adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. These little touches elevate the rustic skillet into something a bit more special.
Side Dishes
This Macaroni and Beef Skillet pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls can be great for sopping up any leftover sauce, rounding out a truly comforting and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve the skillet in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with extra cheese and broil them briefly for a bubbly, golden crust. Alternatively, place the skillet at the center of the table family-style so everyone can dig in, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for sharing good food and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps really well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors even deepen after sitting, making it a fantastic choice for easy next-day meals or quick lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for gentle reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and avoid drying out the pasta. The cheesy goodness will come back to life, making every bite as satisfying as the first.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully for a lighter alternative, and even plant-based ground meat substitutes can be used if you prefer a vegetarian-friendly version.
Is it necessary to add cheese?
Not at all. The cheese is optional and adds a creamy, melty touch, but the skillet is just as delicious without it. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for variation.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap regular diced tomatoes for a spicy variety to give the dish more kick. The smoked paprika also lends a subtle heat and smokiness that enhances the flavor.
What pasta can I use if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
Any small pasta shape will work similarly, such as shells, penne, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to get the pasta al dente.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. The Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe holds up well for meal prepping and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient and delicious choice for busy weeknights or packed lunches.
Final Thoughts
I honestly can’t recommend this Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe enough—it’s one of those classic, come-to comfort dishes that brings joy every time you make it. With fresh ingredients, simple steps, and bold flavors, it’s perfect for feeding your loved ones or treating yourself to a satisfying meal. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes one of your favorites!
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Print
Macaroni and Beef Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Macaroni and Beef recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a flavorful ground beef tomato sauce, enhanced by aromatic vegetables and Italian seasonings. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with cheese or made dairy-free for dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pasta and Toppings
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while preparing the sauce.
- Brown the ground beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté vegetables: To the browned beef, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet with the sauce, stirring well to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Add cheese (optional): If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2–3 minutes so the cheese can melt.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving the dish hot for a fresh burst of flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes or use spicy diced tomatoes.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner protein option.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and reheat easily for convenient meal prep.
