If you are on the hunt for a comforting, hearty, and downright delicious meal that comes together in just one pan, you have to try this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe. This dish is a perfect marriage of savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and creamy melted cheese, all bubbling together with rich tomato and beef broth flavors. It’s a family-friendly weeknight winner that delivers big on satisfaction with minimal cleanup, making dinner both easy and deeply comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe lies in its simple but crucial ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish so irresistible.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity base for browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein that creates a meaty, savory foundation.
- Small onion: Brings sweetness and depth once softened.
- Garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and complexity.
- Dried oregano: Offers a fragrant herbaceous note that complements beef beautifully.
- Paprika: Adds a mild earthiness and a touch of smoky color.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor.
- Beef broth: Provides rich, savory moisture that cooks the macaroni perfectly.
- Crushed tomatoes: Bring acidity and body, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
- Elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to soak up all those incredible flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates that irresistibly gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top.
- Fresh parsley: A fresh, bright touch to garnish and lighten the dish (optional).
How to Make One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Build Flavor
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks until nicely browned. This step not only cooks the meat but develops a savory base for the entire dish, so don’t rush it. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep things from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Spices
Next up, stir in the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper, letting them cook for a minute until fragrant. This mixture infuses the dish with warm, aromatic layers that elevate the simple ground beef.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring everything together to combine. Then add the uncooked elbow macaroni, mixing well so it’s fully submerged in the flavorful sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low, covering, and letting it simmer gently. Stir occasionally as the pasta cooks and absorbs the liquid, about 12 to 15 minutes, until the macaroni is tender and the sauce thickens beautifully.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese
Once the macaroni is perfectly cooked, take the skillet off the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This step transforms the dish as the cheese melts into a creamy, cheesy delight that makes every bite so comforting.
Step 5: Melt the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for 2 to 3 minutes to let these cheeses melt into a golden, bubbly crust. For a final touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe with a handful of fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. A drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of extra Parmesan can take it over the top for presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette to contrast its richness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce, while steamed vegetables add a fresh, wholesome balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this cheesy beef and macaroni in mini cast-iron skillets for individual portions at dinner parties. Alternatively, scoop it into hollowed-out bell peppers and bake briefly to add sweet crunch and an inviting presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better, but for the best texture, try to enjoy it within that window.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish by placing cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and tasty meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. The microwave works fine too—cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until piping hot and creamy once again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic and holds the sauce perfectly, feel free to swap in small shells, rotini, or even penne. Just make sure the pasta cooks in about the same time so everything finishes evenly.
Is ground beef the only meat option?
Not at all—you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a deeper flavor, try a blend of sausage and beef. Just adjust the seasonings as needed to complement the new protein.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or a mixture of mushrooms and lentils for texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and keep all the other ingredients the same for a comforting vegetarian meal.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mildly seasoned with paprika and pepper, so it’s generally not spicy. You can easily add crushed red pepper or hot sauce if you want a little kick to brighten the flavors.
What cheese works best in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar adds the perfect balance of creaminess and tang, while Parmesan contributes a nutty, savory finish. Mixing the two creates a wonderful cheesy depth that’s hard to beat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced meal with minimal fuss, this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe should be your next go-to. It’s a bowl of pure comfort that’s so easy to make and sure to warm hearts around your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your meal rotation!
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One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni recipe is a hearty, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is browned with aromatic onions and garlic, then simmered with tender macaroni in a flavorful tomato and beef broth sauce. The dish is finished with generous amounts of melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese, creating a creamy, cheesy pasta bowl all made in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups (475 ml) beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until the mixture is fragrant and well combined.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and the crushed tomatoes, stirring everything together. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and mix well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture throughout the dish.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese along with the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes so the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and grease in the dish.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent macaroni from sticking to the skillet bottom.
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes with the paprika and oregano.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
