There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish on a chilly evening. One-Pot Cheesy Beef Macaroni is the ultimate family-friendly meal that brings together tender ground beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all in one pot. It’s a recipe that has been passed down in many households, often evoking memories of family dinners, casual weeknight meals, or even lunchbox favorites from childhood.
Inspired by classic American comfort food and the need for simplicity in the kitchen, this recipe streamlines the process while keeping the flavors indulgent and satisfying. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in a single pot. Perfect for cozy dinners at home, quick weeknight meals, or whenever you need a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish, this cheesy beef macaroni is destined to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
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1 pound (450 g) ground beef
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups (480 ml) beef or vegetable broth
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2 cups (480 ml) milk
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2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
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2 cups (200 g) uncooked elbow macaroni
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1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes, drained
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Prepare the Beef and Vegetables
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Using a pot with a thick base ensures even heat distribution, which is key for achieving perfectly browned beef. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped onion. Onions provide a natural sweetness and depth of flavor that forms the foundation of the dish, so allow them to sauté slowly. Cook the onion for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent any burning, until the pieces become soft, translucent, and fragrant. You should be able to smell a sweet, savory aroma filling your kitchen at this point.
Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Garlic is incredibly potent and releases its flavor quickly, so cook it for just about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Be careful not to let it brown, as burned garlic can develop a bitter taste that will affect the overall flavor of your dish. By the end of this step, your kitchen should smell warm, inviting, and reminiscent of classic comfort food meals.
Once the aromatics are ready, it’s time to add the star ingredient: the ground beef. Add the entire pound of beef to the pot. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, break the meat into small, evenly sized pieces. This ensures uniform cooking and allows the beef to absorb the flavors of the onions and garlic. Continue to cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes.
As the beef cooks, it will release some of its natural fat. Depending on the leanness of your meat, you may want to drain excess fat at this stage. Removing extra fat ensures that your macaroni doesn’t become greasy and that the flavors remain balanced. Be careful while draining, and always leave a small amount of fat in the pot, as it helps bind the flavors of the sauce later on.
2. Season the Beef
Once your beef is cooked, it’s time to build flavor. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. These spices create a well-rounded, savory profile that complements the creamy cheese sauce you’ll add later.
Take a moment to stir the beef thoroughly, ensuring that every morsel is coated with the seasonings. This step is crucial because the seasoning infuses into the meat, creating a rich and flavorful base for the dish. For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes at this stage. They will add a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the cheesy pasta without overpowering it.
Allow the seasoned beef to cook for an additional minute or so after stirring. This step helps the spices bloom, meaning their essential oils are released, enhancing the aroma and taste. By now, your kitchen should be filled with a mouthwatering aroma that signals the start of a comforting, hearty meal.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta
With the beef and aromatics perfectly seasoned, it’s time to introduce the liquids that will cook the pasta and create the creamy base of the dish. Pour in 2 cups of beef or vegetable broth and 2 cups of milk directly into the pot. The broth adds depth and savoriness, while the milk contributes to the creamy texture of the final dish. Use your wooden spoon to stir everything together, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful browned bits left from the beef. These bits, also known as fond, add an extra layer of taste to the dish.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, add 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the pasta simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. It’s important to stir every few minutes to prevent the macaroni from sticking together or sticking to the bottom of the pot.
During this time, the pasta will absorb the flavorful liquid, expanding as it cooks. The broth and milk combination ensures that the macaroni becomes tender while simultaneously taking on the savory flavors from the beef and spices. The aroma of the cooking pasta mixed with the seasoned beef will start to fill your kitchen, creating a sense of warmth and anticipation.
4. Incorporate Cheese and Tomatoes
Once the macaroni is fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Adding the cheese slowly allows it to melt evenly, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats every piece of macaroni. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth texture, making sure no clumps of cheese remain.
Next, fold in 1 can of drained diced tomatoes. These add a subtle tanginess and freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Stir the tomatoes gently to incorporate them evenly throughout the dish. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference. If you like a slight kick, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes here for a gentle heat that enhances the flavors without overwhelming them.
This stage is where the dish truly comes together. The creamy cheese envelops the tender macaroni, the savory beef provides depth, and the tomatoes add bursts of freshness. Each bite promises a perfect combination of flavors and textures that is both comforting and indulgent.
5. Serve and Garnish
Spoon the cheesy beef macaroni into serving bowls or onto plates. For a pop of color and added freshness, garnish with a generous sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley. This simple addition elevates the visual appeal of the dish while adding a subtle herbal note that brightens the rich flavors.
For those looking to indulge further, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar over the top and place the dish under a broiler for 2–3 minutes. This step creates a golden, bubbly crust that adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy pasta underneath. Serve immediately, while warm and melty, so that each bite delivers maximum comfort and satisfaction.
Whether enjoyed on a cozy weeknight or served to a crowd, this One-Pot Cheesy Beef Macaroni is guaranteed to be a hit. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and effortless preparation make it the ultimate comfort food, ideal for bringing family and friends together around the table.
Tips for the Perfect One-Pot Cheesy Beef Macaroni
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Use sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor. Mild cheddar works too, but sharp cheddar gives a richer, more pronounced taste.
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Don’t skip the broth. It not only adds depth of flavor but ensures the macaroni cooks perfectly without sticking.
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Stir occasionally. While simmering, stir the pasta mixture every few minutes to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
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Make it creamy. For an extra creamy texture, add 1/4 cup of cream or half-and-half along with the milk.
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Customize with vegetables. For added nutrition, toss in peas, diced bell peppers, or chopped spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and efficiency. By cooking the pasta directly in the broth and milk with the beef, the macaroni absorbs the rich flavors of the meat and seasonings, creating a deeply satisfying dish. The gradual addition of cheese ensures a smooth, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of pasta.
This one-pot method also reduces the usual mess associated with layered casseroles or multi-pot pasta dishes. With minimal cleanup, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, yet still comforting enough for a leisurely family dinner.
Meal Prep and Storage
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
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Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but cheese texture may change slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
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Make-ahead: You can prepare the beef and onion mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the pasta, liquids, and cheese when ready to cook.
Pairing Suggestions
This hearty macaroni pairs wonderfully with:
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A fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette
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Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
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Garlic bread or a soft dinner roll for soaking up every bit of cheesy sauce
For a family dinner, consider serving a simple fruit salad for dessert to balance the richness of the pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can substitute with shells, rotini, or penne. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the pasta type to ensure it reaches al dente perfection.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and follow the same method for a satisfying vegetarian option.
3. How do I make this extra cheesy?
Add a combination of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack along with cheddar. For a more decadent sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end of cooking.
4. Can I prepare this in advance for a crowd?
Yes, this recipe scales well. Double the ingredients and cook in a large pot. You can prepare the base (beef and onions) ahead of time, then combine with pasta and liquids just before serving for fresh, creamy results.
