Cheesy Beef and Macaroni
A delightful comfort food combining hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Hearty ground beef for rich flavor
- 1 diced onion Adds sweetness and depth
- 1/2 tsp salt To taste
- 1/2 tsp pepper To taste
- 1 tsp onion powder Enhances onion flavor
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning For added herbal notes
- 1 tsp paprika Adds a touch of sweetness and color
- 1 TBSP Worcestershire sauce Brings umami flavor
- 1 TBSP minced garlic Fresh garlic for flavor
- 2 cans (8 oz) tomato sauce Base of the sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes Adds texture and freshness
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth Adds depth to the dish
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Main carbohydrate component
- Shredded cheddar cheese To top the dish before serving
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Drain the excess grease once the beef is browned.
- Add minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni.
- Add the bay leaves and let the mixture bubble.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until the pasta is cooked and the liquid reduces.
- Remove the bay leaves, stir well, and serve topped with shredded cheddar cheese.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas.