Macaroni with Meat: Easy & Delicious Ground Beef Pasta

Craving Comfort Food? Look No Further Than This Amazing Macaroni With Meat!

Are you ready for a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? This Macaroni with Meat recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends. It’s packed with flavor, hearty, and will have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your rotation!

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s bursting with rich, savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• The combination of tender macaroni and seasoned meat is simply irresistible.
• It’s a breeze to prepare, even on a busy weeknight.
• This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special get-togethers.
• It’s incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it with your favorite cheeses or spices.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this Macaroni with Meat apart is the way the flavors are developed. Rather than just throwing everything together, we take the time to properly brown the meat, building a deep, rich base flavor. The addition of specific spices perfectly complements the meat and pasta, creating a symphony of tastes that is both comforting and exciting. We also use a combination of tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes for the perfect consistency, making it not too thick or too thin. You won’t find a more satisfying version!

Ingredient List

• 1 pound macaroni pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking, to help prevent sticking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Add 1/2 cup water to the mixture.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Remove the sauce from the heat. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated.
8. Pour the macaroni and meat mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to experiment with different toppings and variations to personalize this recipe:

• Sprinkle with a bit of Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy touch.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
• Mix in some cooked vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a more nutrient-packed dish.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the macaroni. It should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Be sure to drain the excess grease from the ground beef to prevent a greasy finished product.
• Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 15 minutes; this step really makes a difference in the depth of flavor.
• If you want a more intense tomato flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the sauce.
• Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a different type of meat?
  Absolutely! Ground turkey or Italian sausage would work great in this recipe.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Can I freeze this?
  Yes, this dish freezes well. Make sure it is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  Of course! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses would also taste great.
• Can I make it vegetarian?
  You can definitely make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or lentils.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative and put your own spin on this classic dish!

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce for a spicy twist.
• Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate some chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Cheesy Lover’s Dream: Mix in some ricotta cheese into the sauce for extra creaminess or use a blend of various cheeses to add different textures and flavors.
• Veggie Loaded: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce for a boost of nutrients and flavor.
• Garlic Boost: If you’re a garlic lover, you can add a bit more garlic to the recipe, roast a garlic head and add it to the sauce or add some garlic powder.

Serving Suggestions

This Macaroni with Meat is wonderful served on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal. It also pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. Consider serving it alongside a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of freshness.

Conclusion

This Macaroni with Meat recipe is a winner for anyone who loves a good, comforting, and easy-to-make meal. Its rich flavors and customizable nature make it a versatile dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to share your photos and subscribe for more delicious recipes!