Skillet Beef and Macaroni Recipe

Skillet Beef and Macaroni is the cozy, one-pan wonder that brings hearty comfort straight to your table in under 30 minutes! This family-favorite dish combines juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all simmered together for the easiest weeknight dinner around.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Skillet Beef and Macaroni is in its humble, everyday ingredients—each one adds its own special touch of flavor, texture, or color. With pantry and fridge staples, you’ll be amazed at how much hearty goodness is packed into every forkful!

• Ground beef (1-1/2 pounds): Provides juicy, meaty richness that serves as the star of the dish. Opt for 80/20 for balance of flavor and tenderness.
• Chopped onion (1/2 cup): Offers an aromatic backbone and sweetness as it cooks down.
• Tomato sauce (two 8-ounce cans): Creates that saucy, savory base that ties everything together.
• Water (1 cup): Gives the pasta exactly what it needs to cook tender and soak up all the flavors.
• Macaroni (7-ounce package): The classic shape for soaking up sauce—feel free to use elbows, shells, or another short pasta.
• Chopped green pepper (1/2 cup): Adds a pop of color and a hint of fresh, earthy bite.
• Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): Deepens the savory flavor with a subtle umami zing that keeps folks guessing.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every ingredient and brings out their best.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a gentle warmth to the final dish—add more if you like a little extra kick!

Variations

This Skillet Beef and Macaroni recipe is practically begging for your personal twist! Whether you need to make it gluten-free, sneak in extra veggies, or dial up the flavor, it’s ridiculously easy to adapt to what you have (or what you’re craving!) in the kitchen.

• Cheesy Twist: Mix in a generous handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the last few minutes for melty, gooey comfort.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, or even frozen peas to boost nutrition and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap in hot Italian sausage for some heat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your Worcestershire sauce label to keep things safe and delicious.

How to Make Skillet Beef and Macaroni

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and chopped onion, breaking the beef into crumbles as it cooks. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions turn translucent—this creates maximum flavor and luscious texture. Once done, carefully drain off any excess grease so your dish doesn’t get oily.

Step 2: Stir in Sauce and Extras

Add the tomato sauce, water, uncooked macaroni, chopped green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper right into the skillet. Give everything a thorough stir so the pasta is nestled under the sauce, ensuring it cooks evenly and absorbs all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally and check the macaroni after about 20 minutes—add a splash more water if the sauce seems too thick. Cook until the pasta is perfectly tender and everything is saucy and cohesive.

Step 4: Taste and Serve

Uncover, give the Skillet Beef and Macaroni a good stir, and taste for seasoning. Add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings and bask in the applause—dinner’s ready!

How to Serve Skillet Beef and Macaroni

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over each bowl of Skillet Beef and Macaroni. Fresh herbs brighten up the deep, savory flavors, while a sprinkle of grated cheese—like Parmesan or cheddar—melts into irresistible goodness. Even just a few cracks of black pepper can make every bite pop!

Side Dishes

This recipe is hearty and filling on its own, but it really shines next to a crisp, green salad or a plate of steamed broccoli. A basket of warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce, turning dinner into a true comfort food feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate weeknight dinner, try serving Skillet Beef and Macaroni in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for individual, restaurant-worthy portions. For family gatherings, pile everything high in a big serving bowl and let everyone dive in, family-style—watch how quickly it disappears!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Skillet Beef and Macaroni to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It keeps well for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully, making it the gift that keeps on giving for lunches or speedy weeknight repeats.

Freezing

This dish actually freezes quite well! Allow the Skillet Beef and Macaroni to cool completely, then portion into freezer-friendly containers. It will keep for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions—just cover loosely and stir partway through heating. Either way, it comes out just as comforting as the day you made it!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that delivers comfort, flavor, and ease all in one skillet, Skillet Beef and Macaroni is the answer. I hope it brings your kitchen the same warmth and smiles that it does to mine—don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your home, too!

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