Classic Macaroni and Beef: A Comforting Family Favorite
Macaroni and beef is a timeless classic that brings together the comforting flavors of hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and savory tomato sauce. This simple yet satisfying dish is a staple in many households, loved by both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for a gathering with friends and family, macaroni and beef always delivers. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make this beloved dish from scratch, with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips along the way.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then return it to the heat.
- Add Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion to the skillet with the cooked ground beef and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Combine with Tomatoes:
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and set it aside.
- Combine and Serve:
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have developed, add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef and tomato sauce.
- Stir well to combine, ensuring that the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt and pepper.
- Serve the macaroni and beef hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version of this dish, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or your favorite meat alternative. Simply sauté the lentils or meat alternative with the onion and garlic until heated through, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
- Cheesy Variation: To add extra richness and flavor to the dish, stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella) into the beef and tomato sauce mixture until melted and creamy.
- Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Replace Pasta: To make a keto or low-carb version of this dish, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles.
- Adjust Sauces: Be mindful of the canned tomatoes and tomato sauce, as they may contain added sugars. Opt for low-carb or sugar-free varieties if available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, macaroni and beef is a great make-ahead dish. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Transfer any leftovers to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What are some serving suggestions for macaroni and beef?
- Macaroni and beef pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including garlic bread, steamed vegetables, green salad, or a simple side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
In conclusion, macaroni and beef is a classic comfort food dish that never fails to please. With its simple yet flavorful combination of ground beef, tender pasta, and savory tomato sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed for a cozy dinner at home or shared with friends at a potluck gathering, this timeless recipe is always a hit. So why not give it a try and see for yourself just how delicious and satisfying it can be?
