Craving a mouthwatering meal that's ready in just 20 minutes? Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Quick Beef and Macaroni recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! This one-skillet wonder combines hearty ground beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a rich, flavorful sauce that's guaranteed to become your new go-to comfort food. Whether you're a busy parent, a college student, or simply someone who loves delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is about to become your culinary superhero!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add ground beef. Break the beef into small crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula, cooking until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving a small amount for flavor. Return skillet to heat and add diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine ingredients thoroughly.
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir to ensure macaroni is evenly distributed and coated with liquid.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking of the macaroni.
- Check macaroni for doneness by testing a few pieces. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight firmness. If needed, add a little more beef broth to prevent drying.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, portioning into individual bowls. Optionally, garnish with grated cheese or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right ground beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture.
- Don't skip draining excess fat, but leave a small amount for added taste.
- Stir frequently to prevent macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dash of garlic powder.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more beef broth to keep it moist.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
- For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or use whole wheat macaroni.
- Experiment with additional seasonings like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a personalized touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
