If you are craving a warm, comforting meal that combines gooey cheese, savory beef, and tender pasta all in one pot, then this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s simple to whip up, wonderfully flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without a mountain of dishes. Each bite is bursting with rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked macaroni that soaks up all those delicious juices, making it a true crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask you to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but key to creating that perfect blend of flavors and textures in this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe. From the fresh aromatics to the cheeses that bring it all together, each element plays a delicious role.
- Olive oil: Helps brown the beef evenly and adds a subtle richness.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein base bursting with savory flavor.
- Small onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when softened.
- Garlic cloves: A little kick of fragrant aroma that elevates the dish.
- Dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbal note to balance the beef.
- Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every other ingredient.
- Beef broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that tenderizes the pasta and infuses richness.
- Crushed tomatoes (canned): Adds tangy sweetness and a vibrant color that livens up the skillet.
- Elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape for holding sauce and cheese in every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides that ooey-gooey meltiness that makes this dish irresistible.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish that lifts the flavors visually and on the palate.
How to Make One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe
Step 1: Brown the beef
Start by heating the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it is nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks for even texture. This step builds the foundation of rich flavor, so getting a good sear without burning is key. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the aromatics and spices
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and let it cook until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for just one minute until all those wonderful aromas bloom. This step layers in the seasoning that will carry through the entire dish.
Step 3: Add liquids and macaroni
Pour in the beef broth and canned crushed tomatoes, stirring gently to combine everything into a rich, savory sauce. Then add the uncooked elbow macaroni, mixing well so each piece is coated. Bring this lovely mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover your skillet and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in the cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This creates a creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops the pasta and beef. The residual heat melts the cheese beautifully, giving the dish that irresistible comfort-food appeal.
Step 5: Finish with extra cheese and garnish
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar along with the Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the skillet again for a few minutes off the heat to allow the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden crust. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, adding a burst of green and a fresh flavor contrast that makes this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe shine.
How to Serve One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds not only a pop of color but a subtle freshness that balances the dish’s richness perfectly. You can also drizzle a tiny bit of extra virgin olive oil or add red pepper flakes for an exciting hint of heat.
Side Dishes
This hearty skillet meal holds its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans creates a complete and well-rounded dinner. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic for soaking up every last cheesy, tomatoey bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe straight from the pan to keep things cozy and rustic. If you want to impress guests, portion it into individual ramekins and sprinkle extra Parmesan or chives on top. It’s also perfect for layering into a casserole dish with extra cheese melted on top for a baked twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the skillet cool completely before transferring leftovers into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze right after cooling and avoid freezing with extra cheese toppings, as they may change texture when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water to restore the creamy consistency. This helps the cheese stay melty and the macaroni tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works perfectly to hold the sauce, small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne can be substituted without any problem. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.
Is ground beef the only meat option for this dish?
You can swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage if you want a different flavor profile or a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust seasoning accordingly since different meats bring their own taste intensity.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain the depth of flavor in a vegetarian version.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes during the cooking process or top the finished dish with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. The paprika also gives a touch of warmth, but extra spices can easily be added to suit your heat preference.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar gives the perfect melt and tang, but you can also blend in mozzarella for extra gooeyness or swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano if you like a saltier, nuttier finish. Experiment until you find your perfect cheese combo!
Final Thoughts
This One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that combines comfort, simplicity, and big flavors all in one easy pot. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to come back to time and again, whether for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd. So go ahead and give it a try—you’re going to love the cozy, cheesy goodness waiting for you after just a short time in the kitchen!
Print
One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting one-skillet meal combining savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. This easy-to-make dish simmers all ingredients together to create a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dinner in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 2 cups (475 ml) beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 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 ensure a less greasy dish.
- Sauté Aromatics and Spices: Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant to build the flavor base.
- Combine Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and mix thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a boil to start cooking the pasta.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The macaroni should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed by the end of this step.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy consistency.
- Melt Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the cheese.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the spices.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
