If you have ever wondered how to whip up a comforting, hearty meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, look no further than this Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe. This dish is the perfect blend of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato flavors all cooked together in one pan, making it a total game changer for busy weeknights. It’s not only incredibly satisfying but also delightfully simple, proving that you don’t need a laundry list of fancy ingredients to enjoy a crowd-pleasing dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is half the fun because each one plays a vital role in creating that classic, comforting taste and texture we all crave. From the protein-packed ground beef to the hearty elbow macaroni, every item adds its own magic.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star of the dish, providing rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds a mellow sweetness and depth once sautéed to perfection.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the skillet dinner with a warm, aromatic punch.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Brings a velvety, tangy base that binds everything together.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice): Adds texture and a bright, fresh note to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lifts the flavor profile to savory perfection.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle warmth and subtle bite.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The perfect pasta shape to cradle the sauce and beef.
- 2 cups beef broth or water: Adds moisture and depth, helping cook the pasta in the skillet.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into a luscious, creamy topping adding rich comfort.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh pop of color and brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Soften the Veggies
Start by heating up a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in your ground beef and cook it until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure every bite is tender. Once the beef looks perfect, drain any excess fat to keep the dish balanced. Next, add diced onions and cook them for about 2–3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. In goes the garlic — just a quick 30 seconds of stirring to release its lovely aroma without burning.
Step 2: Create the Tomato Sauce Base
Time to pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes along with their juice. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then stir everything together so those flavors mingle beautifully. This step is like building a flavor fortress for your pasta and beef to sit in.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth, Then Simmer
Now, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and pour in the beef broth or water. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for tender pasta and a sauce that has mostly absorbed into those noodles, creating a deliciously cohesive skillet feast.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Garnish
If you’re a cheese lover like me, now is the moment to stir in that shredded cheddar until melty and luscious or sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet briefly for a gooey finish. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley right before serving instantly brightens the dish and adds just the right finishing touch.
How to Serve Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
While the dish speaks for itself, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a little extra shredded cheddar can take your Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe up a notch. If you like a hint of zest, freshly cracked black pepper just before plating adds a little sparkle that wakes up every bite.
Side Dishes
This skillet dinner is hearty enough on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, buttery garlic bread, or simple steamed veggies. These sides add balance and a touch of freshness that complement the rich, savory flavors of the beef and tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-friendly presentation, serve the skillet straight from the pan to the table with bowls and spoons for a no-fuss dinner. For a special occasion, sprinkle a little extra cheese and parsley on individual plates and pair with a glass of red wine or your favorite sparkling beverage.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe tastes great reheated and stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making it a perfect lunch or quick dinner option.
Freezing
You can freeze your leftovers for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool the dish completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over low to medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce and prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heat and that cheesy goodness melts beautifully once again.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully and will give the dish a slightly lighter flavor while keeping that same comforting texture we love in the Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
Consider stirring in chopped bell peppers, frozen peas, or spinach during the simmering step. These add vibrant color, extra nutrients, and lovely bursts of fresh flavor without complicating the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta of your choice and double-check that your broth and other ingredients don’t contain gluten. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep the meat and veggies ahead of time, and even mix the sauce, but for the best texture and flavor, cook the pasta fresh just before serving. This keeps your Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe at its absolute best.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe isn’t spicy but has a comforting, well-seasoned flavor thanks to the Italian seasoning and black pepper. If you like heat, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during cooking for a kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a warming meal that feels like a hug on a plate. The Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for its ease, flavor, and the joy it brings to the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how satisfying a simple skillet dinner can be for your family and friends.
Print
Macaroni and Beef Skillet Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A comforting and hearty macaroni and beef recipe that combines browned ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and tender elbow macaroni in one pot. This easy stovetop dish is perfect for a quick family dinner and can be customized with cheese and vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth or water
Optional Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine sauce ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juice. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring everything together evenly.
- Add pasta and liquid: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth (or water). Mix well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a full boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer and cook pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add cheese and garnish: If using cheddar cheese, stir it in just before serving or sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish.
- Add chopped bell peppers or frozen peas to incorporate more vegetables and nutrients.
- Use beef broth instead of water for richer flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick meal the next day.
