Ground Beef Macaroni Delight

Comforting, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Ground Beef Macaroni Delight is a weeknight dinner I turn to again and again. It’s a one-pot wonder that combines tender pasta with savory ground beef and a rich tomato base—simple ingredients that deliver big satisfaction. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this dish is to throw together using pantry staples. It’s the kind of meal I can rely on when I don’t want to fuss but still crave something warm and filling. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta gives it a nostalgic, homemade feel—like something straight from Grandma’s kitchen. It’s versatile, kid-friendly, and can be customized in so many delicious ways.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 lb macaroni (or any pasta)

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, diced)

directions

1. I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the macaroni until al dente. Then I drain it and set it aside.

2. In a large skillet or saucepan, I brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. I drain any excess fat.

3. I stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes, mixing well with the beef. If I want a looser sauce, I add a splash of water or beef broth.

4. I let the mixture simmer for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.

5. I add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated and heated through.

6. I taste and season with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 servings, depending on portion size. It takes roughly 30 minutes total—about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook.

Variations

• Sometimes I add chopped onions and garlic while browning the beef for extra flavor.

• I like throwing in some shredded cheese at the end for a melty, cheesy twist.

• For a bit of heat, I stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

• I swap the ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles when I want a lighter version.

• If I have extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, I toss them in with the sauce.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I just microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between until hot. On the stovetop, I warm it over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat when I need a quick meal.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. I often use penne, rotini, or shells—whatever I have on hand. Just be sure to cook it to al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I make it ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavors get even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or busy evenings.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, I let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat it straight from frozen or after thawing in the fridge overnight.

Can I add cheese?

Definitely. I often stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella, or sprinkle some on top before serving. It adds a creamy, comforting touch.

How do I make it more saucy?

I add extra diced tomatoes, a splash of beef broth, or even a bit of marinara sauce if I want more sauce in the mix. It’s an easy fix depending on my mood.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Macaroni Delight is one of those dependable, satisfying meals that never fails me. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and full of cozy flavor. Whether I’m cooking for my family or just myself, this dish is always a hit—and it makes the best leftovers, too.