If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender ground beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, and creamy, melty cheese in one easy-to-make dish. This recipe is a true kitchen gem that delivers big flavor without the fuss, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With just one skillet, you get to enjoy layers of rich tomato sauce, a hint of smoky paprika, and gooey cheddar cheese that bring everything together in one satisfying bite.

One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe plays a vital role in crafting a delicious, balanced dish. From the olive oil that helps brown the beef to the shredded cheddar that gives it that signature cheesy gooeyness, every item is essential for flavor, texture, and color.

Olive oil: A tablespoon to help brown the beef and sauté the aromatics, adding a subtle fruity note.
Ground beef: The hearty protein base, providing richness and depth.
Small onion: Finely chopped to bring sweetness and soften the mixture.
Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the dish with aromatic warmth and flavor.
Dried oregano: A teaspoon for a touch of herbaceous earthiness that complements the beef.
Paprika: Half a teaspoon adds a smoky undertone and vibrant color.
Salt: Half a teaspoon to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Black pepper: A quarter teaspoon to give a subtle kick and balance the richness.
Beef broth: Two cups to cook the macaroni while infusing the dish with savory depth.
Crushed tomatoes: One 14-ounce can adds acidity, sweetness, and body to the sauce.
Elbow macaroni: One and a half cups of uncooked pasta that absorbs all those delicious flavors.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Two cups for creamy, melty cheesiness you’ll love.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A quarter cup for a nutty, sharp finish on top.
Fresh parsley (optional): Two tablespoons to sprinkle on for a pop of fresh color and brightness.

How to Make One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe

Step 1: Browning the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure it cooks evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy but still rich in flavor. This step creates a savory, juicy base that the rest of the recipe builds on.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and let it soften for three to four minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic along with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about a minute to let those herbs and spices bloom, creating a fragrant foundation that will elevate every bite.

Step 3: Simmering the Sauce and Pasta

Pour in beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring them into the skillet until well combined. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and give everything a good mix. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then turn the heat down low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. This allows the pasta to soak up all the flavorful juices.

Step 4: Adding the Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in one and a half cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy, luscious sauce that coats the pasta and beef perfectly. This step instantly transforms the skillet meal into a wonderfully cheesy comfort dish.

Step 5: Melting the Finishing Cheeses

Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet loosely and let it sit for two to three minutes off the heat so the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly topping. If you want, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and fresh flavor before serving.

How to Serve One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or a pinch of extra Parmesan cheese really brightens up this dish visually and adds a layer of fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy beef and pasta.

Side Dishes

Keep things simple with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. These sides add refreshing crunch and balance to the richness, making your meal feel wholesome and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this cheesy beef and macaroni recipe in individual ramekins or even inside hollowed-out bell peppers for a creative presentation. You can even bake it briefly with extra cheese for a bubbly crust that will impress any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This dish reheats well and actually tastes even better as the flavors settle overnight.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni for up to two months by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out the macaroni.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic here, you can swap in mozzarella for a stretchier texture or a bit of Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The rest of the ingredients can stay the same for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I cook the pasta separately?

While you can, cooking the macaroni right in the skillet allows it to soak up the sauce and flavors better. If you prefer separately cooking, reduce the broth accordingly to avoid a watery final dish.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe has a mild heat level from the paprika and black pepper but isn’t overly spicy. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes if you like more kick, or tone down the spices to suit your palate.

What’s the best skillet to use for this recipe?

A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan works best to distribute heat evenly and provide enough space to cook all the ingredients thoroughly. Non-stick or cast iron skillets are great options.

Final Thoughts

This One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe is a total winner for anyone craving a comforting and flavorful meal without the hassle. It’s an all-in-one dinner that feels special but comes together quickly, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to recipe for cozy nights at home!

One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Recipe

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3.9 from 76 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty and comforting one-skillet meal combining cheesy beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish features ground beef cooked with aromatic spices, simmered with elbow macaroni in beef broth and crushed tomatoes, then topped with melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese for a creamy, flavorful finish.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

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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 avoid greasiness.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until the spices are fragrant.
Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine everything evenly. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and mix well to submerge the pasta in the liquid.
Simmer the Macaroni: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been 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.
Melt the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture. Cover the skillet again and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the cheeses to melt fully.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the cheesy beef and macaroni hot for a satisfying meal.

Notes

Drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy final dish.
Stir occasionally during simmering to avoid macaroni sticking to the skillet bottom.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of red chili flakes with the other spices.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to retain creaminess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American