Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Skillet

Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Skillet

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, hearty comfort food to make you feel at home — and this Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Skillet does exactly that. With tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish is both simple and deeply satisfying. It’s a family favorite that combines everyday ingredients into a flavorful meal that’s ready in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or craving something cozy on a cold evening, this dish is a delicious reminder that the best meals are often the simplest ones.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

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• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410g) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz / 425g) tomato sauce

• 2 cups beef broth (or water)

• 1 ½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni

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• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

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2. Add Aromatics and Vegetables:
   Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced green bell pepper to the cooked beef. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce:
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Add the Pasta:
   Once the sauce is bubbling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir to make sure the pasta is evenly distributed and submerged in the sauce.

5. Simmer to Perfection:
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce. If it becomes too thick, add a bit more broth or water as needed.

6. Finishing Touches:
   Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. For extra creaminess and richness, you can stir in a small handful of shredded cheese at this stage.

7. Serve:
   Spoon the goulash-style pasta into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the comfort in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

This Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Skillet pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete comfort meal, serve with a warm slice of buttered cornbread. It also stores and reheats exceptionally well, making it a great choice for meal prep — the flavors deepen even more the next day.

Conclusion

Rich, filling, and bursting with flavor, this Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Skillet is the definition of comfort food done right. Every bite combines tender pasta, juicy beef, and a savory tomato sauce that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself, this classic recipe brings warmth, nostalgia, and the simple joy of homemade goodness to your table.