Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 3 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Cozy Meals

I love making Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet on busy weeknights when I need something hearty and satisfying. This dish combines juicy ground beef with tender macaroni pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that not only saves time on cleanup but also delivers on taste. The combination of spices and the creaminess of the sauce makes every bite comforting and delicious. My family can't get enough of it, and I’m sure yours will enjoy it just as much!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:29:36.491Z

Making Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of the cozy dinners we had while I was growing up. The way the flavors meld together in just one pan is nothing short of magic. I remember the first time I experimented with adding a touch of Worcestershire sauce—it really elevated the dish!

This recipe evolved beautifully as I worked to balance the seasonings. Using sharp Cheddar cheese at the end takes it to the next level. I love that we can utilize leftovers or even make it the centerpiece of our family meal. It's versatile, tasty, and makes everyone feel at home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a family meal
Quick and easy to prepare, great for busy nights
One-pan cleanup means less time doing dishes

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in this Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet is the ground beef, which provides the protein and rich flavor that makes the dish satisfying. Choosing a ground beef with a good fat content, like 80/20, will enhance the overall taste and mouthfeel. Be sure to drain excess fat after browning to keep the dish from becoming greasy. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work as substitutes, but they may require additional seasoning to replicate the beef's depth.

The elbow macaroni not only adds substance to the dish but also absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully. Cooking it directly in the skillet with the other ingredients allows the pasta to soak up the beef broth and tomato juices, creating a harmonious flavor. Ensure you stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitutes like rice or gluten-free pasta can be used, though cooking times may differ.

Tips for Perfecting the Sauce

The sauce plays a crucial role in this recipe, providing creaminess and flavor that ties everything together. Worcestershire sauce adds a complex tang that elevates the dish. If you're out of Worcestershire, a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar can serve as an effective substitute. Additionally, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or paprika for a kick, or a spoonful of brown sugar for balanced sweetness if you're using acidic tomatoes.

To ensure your sauce remains luscious, avoid overcooking the macaroni. It should be tender but still slightly firm ('al dente') to withstand the heat while being mixed with cheese. After stirring in the Cheddar, serve promptly. If it thickens too much while sitting, a splash of beef broth can restore the creaminess when reheating.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups elbow macaroni
3 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.

Add the Pasta

Stir in the elbow macaroni, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.

Add Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!

This quick and delightful dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef while it cooks. You can also substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a healthier option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet can easily be prepared in advance, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Cook the dish as directed, allowing it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat and add a touch of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce as necessary.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Allow the skillet to cool, then freeze in individual servings. It can be stored frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be aware that the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing.

Serving Suggestions

To make this meal even heartier, consider serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A bright green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. For added flavor, serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic reduction on top just before serving.

If you want to elevate this skillet even further, try experimenting with toppings. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme would add a burst of freshness. Alternatively, adding sautéed mushrooms or a combination of bell peppers can introduce new textures and flavors without much effort. Feel free to customize based on what you have on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta shape you prefer, like shells or penne.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and reheat when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this skillet for a complete meal.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet dish for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.