Satisfy Your Comfort Food Cravings with This Hearty Beef & Macaroni Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the warm, savory satisfaction of a classic Beef & Macaroni Skillet. Packed with tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato base, this recipe brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or looking to please a crowd, this one-pan wonder is not just easy to make—it’s downright irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour with pantry staples.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or spice level to suit your taste.
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Ingredients List and Their Role
1. 1/2 lb macaroni
The pasta base that provides texture and soaks up the flavorful sauce.
2. 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
Rich and hearty, ground beef adds protein and a robust flavor to the dish.
3. 1 large onion, diced
Sweet and aromatic, onions build the dish’s foundational flavor.
4. Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce (to taste)
A perfect blend of spices to enhance the beef and give a slight kick.
5. 2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
The heart of the sauce—these provide a tangy, rich tomato base.
6. 2 tablespoons ketchup
Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the sauce.
7. Tomato juice (as needed)
Ensures the sauce reaches your desired consistency without overpowering the dish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Base:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat to prevent a greasy dish.
3. Sauté the Onion:
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the dish’s aromatic base.
4. Season the Dish:
Sprinkle garlic salt, pepper, and chili powder over the beef mixture. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like it spicy, add a few dashes of hot sauce.
5. Add Tomatoes and Ketchup:
Pour in the stewed tomatoes (including their juices) and use a spoon to break them into smaller pieces. Stir in the ketchup to create a balanced, slightly sweet sauce.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. Add tomato juice as needed to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the skillet, ensuring every piece is coated in the rich tomato-beef mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and serve hot. For extra flavor, sprinkle with grated cheese or fresh parsley.
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Why This Recipe Is a Fan Favorite
Flavorful Layers: The blend of aromatic onions, seasoned beef, and tangy tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that’s unforgettable.
One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup without sacrificing taste or texture.
Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or paired with sides like a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
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Pro Tips for Perfecting Beef & Macaroni
Use Quality Beef: Opt for ground beef with an 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio for the best balance of flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Undercook the macaroni slightly, as it will continue to absorb the sauce’s flavors when combined.
Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go to find the perfect balance of spice and salt.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair with garlic bread for a satisfying crunch.
Add a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Serve with a glass of iced tea or your favorite red wine to complete the meal.
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The Final Word
This Beef & Macaroni Skillet is a surefire crowd-pleaser that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for its comforting, homey taste and ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that warms the he
art and fills the belly.
Ready to make your kitchen the coziest spot in the house? Grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!
