17 Delicious Ground Beef and Macaroni Recipes Easy to Make

Mmm, there’s nothing quite like the comforting duo of ground beef and macaroni to make weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether you’re craving a hearty casserole, a speedy skillet meal, or a twist on a classic, our roundup of 17 easy-to-make recipes has got you covered. Dive in to discover your next family favorite that’s sure to satisfy any appetite!

Classic Beef and Macaroni Casserole

Whisking together comfort and nostalgia, this Classic Beef and Macaroni Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that promises to satisfy. With its rich layers of seasoned beef, tender pasta, and melted cheese, it’s a timeless recipe that feels both luxurious and homely.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 cups elbow macaroni. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef until browned, about 5 minutes. Tip: Break the beef into small crumbles for even cooking.
4. Add 1 medium diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 cup beef broth, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni and beef mixture in a large bowl. Tip: For extra flavor, let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before transferring to the baking dish.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
8. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle over the cheese. Tip: For a golden crust, place the casserole under the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking.
9. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden.

Rich in texture and bursting with savory flavors, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad. For a twist, try serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Spicy Ground Beef Macaroni Skillet

Nothing satisfies quite like a hearty, one-pan meal that marries the comforting familiarity of pasta with the bold flavors of well-seasoned ground beef. Our Spicy Ground Beef Macaroni Skillet is a symphony of textures and tastes, designed to delight the senses and simplify your dinner routine.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper, stirring to combine.
5. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil, then add macaroni.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until macaroni is al dente.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let sit for 2 minutes to melt.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

A perfect balance of spicy and savory, this skillet dish boasts tender macaroni enveloped in a richly flavored beef sauce, with a hint of heat that lingers pleasantly. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation, or top with additional cheese and a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Macaroni Bake

Venture into the realm of comfort food with a dish that marries the heartiness of ground beef with the creamy indulgence of macaroni and cheese, all baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, then drain excess fat.
4. In the same pot used for macaroni, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute until golden.
5. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form, then bring to a simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Remove the sauce from heat, stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese until melted, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni and ground beef with the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure even distribution.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top.

The Cheesy Ground Beef and Macaroni Bake emerges from the oven with a tantalizing crust, offering a perfect contrast to the tender pasta and savory beef beneath. Serve it straight from the dish for a family-style meal that promises to comfort and satisfy.

One-Pot Ground Beef Macaroni Soup

Kickstart your evening with a comforting bowl of One-Pot Ground Beef Macaroni Soup, a dish that marries the heartiness of ground beef with the tender embrace of macaroni in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for those chilly nights when only a spoonful of warmth will do, this recipe promises simplicity without sacrificing depth of flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Tip: For extra flavor, let the beef develop a slight crust before stirring.
3. Stir in 1 cup diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Pour in 4 cups beef broth and 1 can diced tomatoes, then add 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Add 2 cups elbow macaroni, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Ensure the macaroni is submerged to cook evenly.
6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Tip: For a smoother melt, add the cheese in batches.
7. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Zesty with a hint of herbs, this soup boasts a velvety texture from the melted cheese, while the macaroni adds a delightful bite. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or top with extra cheese for an indulgent twist.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Tomato Sauce

Zesty and comforting, this Ground Beef Macaroni with Tomato Sauce is a classic dish that marries the heartiness of beef with the tangy sweetness of tomato, all enveloped in tender pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s a versatile recipe that promises satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil, mixing well to combine.
5. Add elbow macaroni and water, stirring to ensure the pasta is submerged.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and let stand covered for 2 minutes to melt the cheese.

Rich in flavor and texture, this dish offers a delightful contrast between the creamy Parmesan and the al dente macaroni. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory tomato sauce, or top with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.

Healthy Ground Beef and Whole Wheat Macaroni

Wholesome and hearty, this Healthy Ground Beef and Whole Wheat Macaroni dish marries the robust flavors of lean ground beef with the nutty undertones of whole wheat pasta, creating a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s a modern twist on a classic comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor or health benefits.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 oz whole wheat macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Meanwhile, cook whole wheat macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
7. Add baby spinach to the beef mixture and cook until just wilted, about 1 minute.
8. Combine cooked macaroni with the beef and spinach mixture, tossing gently to ensure even distribution.
9. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an added layer of flavor.

Delightfully satisfying, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures, from the tender macaroni to the juicy ground beef, all brought together with the freshness of spinach. Serve it in a warm bowl for a cozy dinner, or pack it for lunch the next day—it’s just as delicious reheated.

Ground Beef Macaroni Salad with Mayonnaise

Glistening with a creamy mayonnaise dressing, this Ground Beef Macaroni Salad is a hearty, comforting dish that marries the richness of beef with the lightness of pasta, perfect for summer gatherings or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and let cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Add the cooked macaroni, ground beef, diced red onion, and diced celery to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Yielded with a delightful crunch from the celery and a tangy sharpness from the Dijon, this salad boasts a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Serve it atop a bed of lettuce for an elegant presentation or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Quick Ground Beef and Macaroni Stir Fry

Perfectly blending the heartiness of ground beef with the comforting embrace of macaroni, this stir-fry is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and flavor. It’s a dish that promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite, with a melody of textures and tastes that speak directly to the soul of home cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While the macaroni cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the beef broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes, reducing slightly.
6. Stir in the cooked macaroni, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a minute before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Lusciously creamy with a slight chew from the macaroni, this dish is a delightful contrast of textures. Serve it garnished with extra Parmesan and a side of crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Mushrooms and Peas

Kickstart your culinary journey with a dish that marries the heartiness of ground beef with the delicate flavors of mushrooms and peas, all enveloped in a comforting embrace of macaroni. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
3. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring to combine.
4. Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes.
5. Pour in beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for 2 minutes.
6. Stir in elbow macaroni and frozen peas, ensuring everything is well combined.
7. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low, simmering until the macaroni is al dente, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top, letting it melt slightly before serving.

Unveil a dish where the tender macaroni and savory beef are perfectly complemented by the earthy mushrooms and sweet peas, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Serve it in a warm bowl for a cozy dinner, or elevate it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of elegance.

Baked Ground Beef and Macaroni with Cheese Topping

Savory and satisfying, this baked ground beef and macaroni with a golden cheese topping is a comforting classic that never fails to delight. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture in the skillet, stirring gently to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
9. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Lusciously creamy with a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping, this dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Garlic and Herbs

Unveiling a dish that marries comfort with sophistication, this Ground Beef Macaroni with Garlic and Herbs is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary, it’s a harmonious blend of hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and aromatic herbs.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add elbow macaroni and water to the skillet, stirring to combine. Tip: Ensure the pasta is fully submerged for even cooking.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb any remaining liquid. Tip: This step ensures the perfect al dente texture.
7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and gently stir to combine. Tip: For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan.

This dish boasts a delightful contrast of textures, from the tender macaroni to the savory beef, all enveloped in a garlicky, herb-infused aroma. Serve it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.

Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Macaroni Stew

Few dishes embody the comfort of home quite like a hearty stew, and this Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Macaroni Stew is no exception. Perfect for those chilly evenings when only something warm and satisfying will do, it combines the richness of ground beef with the heartiness of macaroni in a savory broth that’s both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
2. Add 1 cup diced onions and 2 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Pour in 4 cups beef broth, then add 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Add 1 cup elbow macaroni to the slow cooker, stirring well to ensure it’s submerged in the broth. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is al dente.
6. Tip: For a thicker stew, let it sit uncovered for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the broth to reduce slightly.
7. Tip: If you prefer a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef in batches to ensure a deep, caramelized crust.
8. Tip: Always taste the broth before adding the macaroni to adjust seasoning, as the pasta will absorb some of the salt.

This stew boasts a delightful texture, with tender ground beef and perfectly cooked macaroni swimming in a deeply flavorful broth. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a side of crusty bread for an extra touch of elegance.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Spinach and Feta

Delightfully comforting yet elegantly simple, this Ground Beef Macaroni with Spinach and Feta marries hearty flavors with a touch of Mediterranean flair, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.
4. Stir in salt, black pepper, and dried oregano, cooking for 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.
5. Pour in tomato sauce and water, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain. Tip: Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
7. Add chopped spinach to the beef sauce, stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef and spinach sauce, tossing gently to coat evenly. Tip: For extra creaminess, stir in the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
9. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top before serving.

The dish boasts a harmonious blend of textures, from the tender macaroni and juicy beef to the slight crunch of spinach, all enveloped in a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of flavor, or a crisp green salad for contrast.

Ground Beef and Macaroni Stuffed Peppers

Combining the hearty comfort of ground beef and macaroni with the sweet, vibrant crunch of bell peppers, this dish is a delightful twist on classic stuffed peppers. Crafted for those who cherish both flavor and presentation, it’s a meal that promises satisfaction with every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, then stir in the marinara sauce and cooked macaroni until well combined.
5. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Spoon the beef and macaroni mixture into each pepper, filling them to the top.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tops.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Finished with a golden cheese topping, these stuffed peppers offer a perfect blend of textures, from the tender pepper to the savory, cheesy filling. For an extra touch of elegance, serve atop a drizzle of balsamic reduction or alongside a crisp green salad.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Caramelized Onions

Just when you thought comfort food couldn’t get any more indulgent, this Ground Beef Macaroni with Caramelized Onions comes along to prove otherwise. A harmonious blend of savory beef, tender pasta, and sweetly golden onions, this dish is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients transformed through careful cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes until deeply caramelized.
2. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In the same skillet used for the onions, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and the ground beef. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking apart the beef, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, stirring to combine.
5. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3 minutes to slightly thicken.
6. Add the cooked macaroni and caramelized onions to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the sauce.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, then cover the skillet for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

Lusciously creamy with a perfect balance of savory and sweet, this dish is best served straight from the skillet, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.

Ground Beef and Macaroni with Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Venturing into the realm of comfort food with a twist, this dish marries the heartiness of ground beef with the creamy indulgence of Alfredo sauce, all tossed with tender macaroni for a meal that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. While beef cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same skillet used for beef, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
5. Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Season sauce with salt and pepper. Add cooked macaroni and ground beef to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.

Rich in flavor and luxuriously creamy, this dish offers a delightful contrast between the tender pasta and the savory beef. Serve it garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Ground Beef Macaroni Pie with Puff Pastry

Kickstart your culinary adventure with a dish that marries the comforting richness of ground beef and macaroni with the flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that’s bound to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
4. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
5. Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper into the sauce until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni and ground beef with the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
8. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish, then line the dish with the pastry, trimming any excess.
9. Pour the macaroni and beef mixture into the pastry-lined dish, then cover with the remaining pastry, sealing the edges with a fork.
10. Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish, then bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Yield a pie that boasts a crispy, golden crust encasing a creamy, savory filling, perfect for slicing into generous portions that reveal the hearty macaroni and beef beneath. Serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness, or enjoy a slice on its own for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Conclusion

You’ve just discovered 17 mouthwatering ground beef and macaroni recipes that promise ease and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a quick weeknight dinner, this roundup has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try these dishes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your must-makes on Pinterest. Happy cooking!