Imagine a bubbling pot of deliciousness, where each bite brings you creamy, savory goodness that warms your heart. This One-Pot Beef and Macaroni is just that—the perfect blend of tender ground beef, cozy macaroni, and rich tomato broth that feels like a big hug on a chilly day. It’s creamy without needing any heavy cream, which is a total win!
This dish is not only full of flavor but also super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. All you need are a few pantry staples, and in no time, you’ll have a comforting meal the whole family will dive into. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish that you’ll want on repeat!
Why You’ll Love One-Pot Beef and Macaroni (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This recipe combines the joy of cooking with the simplicity of one-pot meals. You’ll adore how it’s filled with textures—think chewy macaroni hugging flavorful beef—all simmered together in a luscious tomato broth. Not only is it comforting, but it’s also a breeze to clean up, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal!
Benefits
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes!
- One-Pot Wonder: Less mess to clean up afterward.
- Pantry-Friendly: Use ingredients you already have on hand.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for lunches or busy nights!
- Kid-Friendly: A dish that pleases picky eaters.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins.
Ingredients for One-Pot Beef and Macaroni
- Ground Beef – Adds rich flavor and protein.
- Macaroni – The classic pasta that brings comfort.
- Tomato Broth – Gives depth, richness, and moisture.
- Onion, Chopped – Adds subtle sweetness and aroma.
- Garlic, Minced – Brings in that delightful savory punch.
- Italian Seasoning – Infuses warm, herby flavors.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste – Enhance all the flavors.
- Grated Cheese for Topping (optional) – Melts beautifully for an extra layer of yum!
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make One-Pot Beef and Macaroni
Phase 1 – Prep
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Measure out your macaroni and have the tomato broth ready.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft.
- Pour in the tomato broth, and stir in the macaroni and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the pasta is tender.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with cheese if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Swap the Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter version.
- Techniques to Enhance Flavor: Brown the beef until it’s nicely caramelized for deeper flavor.
- Storage Time Saver: Double the recipe and enjoy leftovers for a quick meal later in the week.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. This happens when you let the macaroni simmer too long. The fix? Check the pasta for doneness a couple of minutes early, so it remains firm.
Another mistake is adding too much liquid. This can lead to a soupy dish. Ensure you follow the broth measurements closely and adjust if needed.
Lastly, forgetting to season can dull the flavor. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to enhance the deliciousness.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a kick!
- Herb Boost: Stir in fresh basil or parsley before serving.
- Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, then quick-release.
How to Serve One-Pot Beef and Macaroni
- Best Pairings: Garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
- Toppings & Garnishes: Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- Drink Pairing: A chilled lemonade or iced tea complements the dish perfectly.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! Just store in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze it for up to 3 months! Just bear in mind that the pasta may soften slightly after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or warm it up on the stove over low heat until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, you can! Just add it earlier in the cooking process so it cooks through.
How to make it extra creamy without cream? Stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before serving for creaminess.
Can I double it? Absolutely! Just increase the ingredients proportionally and ensure you have a big enough pot.
How to fix a too-thick soup? Add a little more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
With this One-Pot Beef and Macaroni, you not only get a mouthwatering meal but also a cozy kitchen moment that warms the heart. It’s incredibly easy and absolutely delicious, so don’t forget to rate this recipe or try some of our other comforting dishes! Happy cooking!
One-Pot Beef and Macaroni
Ingredients
Method
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Measure out your macaroni and have the tomato broth ready.
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft.
- Pour in the tomato broth, and stir in the macaroni and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer until the pasta is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with cheese if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!