18 Delicious Ground Beef and Macaroni Recipes for Every Occasion

There’s something undeniably comforting about the classic combo of ground beef and macaroni, don’t you think? Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, craving some hearty comfort food, or looking for a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our roundup of 18 Delicious Ground Beef and Macaroni Recipes that promise to satisfy every craving and occasion. Let’s get cooking!

Classic Beef and Macaroni Casserole

Nothing says comfort like a hearty Classic Beef and Macaroni Casserole, a dish that brings together tender pasta, savory beef, and a creamy cheese topping for the ultimate family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large pot, boil the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, then stir in the tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture and sour cream, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The magic of this casserole lies in the creamy sour cream mixed right into the pasta, creating a rich texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy cheese topping.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Spicy Ground Beef Macaroni Skillet

This Spicy Ground Beef Macaroni Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings together hearty ground beef, tender macaroni, and a kick of spice for a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the macaroni, diced tomatoes, beef broth, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and cover for 2 minutes to let the cheese melt.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

The smoky paprika and cumin give this dish a depth of flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the freshness of cilantro. It’s a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic.

Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Bake

This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce for a dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
4. Stir the cooked macaroni, diced tomatoes with their juice, and 1/2 cup milk into the skillet with the beef. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The magic of this bake lies in the crispy, cheesy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the saucy, beefy macaroni underneath.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time.

One-Pot Ground Beef and Macaroni

This One-Pot Ground Beef and Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the melty cheese and tender macaroni soaking up all the savory flavors of the beef and tomatoes. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s as satisfying to eat as it is easy to make.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other spices.

Healthy Ground Beef and Whole Wheat Macaroni

Looking for a hearty yet healthy weeknight dinner? This ground beef and whole wheat macaroni dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 oz whole wheat macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture in the skillet. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss until evenly coated.

The whole wheat macaroni adds a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the savory beef and sweet tomatoes, creating a balanced dish that’s satisfying without being heavy.

Tip: For an extra veggie boost, stir in a handful of spinach during the last minute of cooking.

Ground Beef Macaroni Soup

Warm up your evening with this hearty Ground Beef Macaroni Soup, a comforting bowl that combines savory beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato broth in just under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes, then stir in oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Add macaroni to the pot and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve hot.

The magic of this soup lies in the Parmesan melting into the broth, creating a creamy texture without any cream. It’s a weeknight winner that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the oregano.

Quick Ground Beef and Macaroni Stir Fry

Craving something hearty and quick? This Ground Beef and Macaroni Stir Fry is your weeknight savior, combining comfort food with the ease of a one-pan meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Stir in cooked macaroni, soy sauce, and beef broth. Cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and cover the skillet for 2 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the melty cheese and the savory depth from the soy sauce and beef broth, creating a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the seasonings.

Ground Beef and Macaroni Stuffed Peppers

These Ground Beef and Macaroni Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of a beefy pasta bake with the sweet, tender appeal of roasted bell peppers.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place peppers in a baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in uncooked macaroni, diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Spoon the beef and macaroni mixture into the prepared bell peppers. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over each pepper, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

The melty cheese topping and the tender-crisp peppers create a delightful contrast in textures, making every bite a joy.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try mixing a tablespoon of tomato paste into the beef and macaroni mixture before stuffing the peppers.

Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni

This Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich flavors and creamy textures in one skillet for a fuss-free dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the macaroni, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy mushroom soup melding with the melted cheese, creating a velvety sauce that coats every bite of macaroni and beef.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other seasonings.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Tomato Sauce

Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a hearty Ground Beef Macaroni with Tomato Sauce, a classic dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
2. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and sugar into the beef mixture. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef and sauce, tossing gently to coat evenly.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

The secret to this dish’s rich flavor is the simmering of the tomato sauce with the beef, creating a depth that’s hard to resist.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the oregano.

Baked Ground Beef and Macaroni with Cheese

Comfort food at its finest, this Baked Ground Beef and Macaroni with Cheese is a hearty, cheesy dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
4. Add the cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes with their juice, and 1/2 cup milk to the macaroni. Stir to combine, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

The secret to this dish’s irresistible appeal is the combination of juicy ground beef and creamy, melted cheeses, all baked to perfection.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Ground Beef and Macaroni Salad

This Ground Beef and Macaroni Salad is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the richness of beef with the lightness of pasta salad, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced pickles

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp mustard, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
4. Add the cooked macaroni, ground beef, 1/2 cup diced red onion, 1/2 cup diced celery, and 1/2 cup diced pickles to the bowl. Toss until everything is well coated with the dressing.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

The tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables give this salad a refreshing contrast to the savory beef and tender pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing before mixing.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Mushrooms

This Ground Beef Macaroni with Mushrooms is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the richness of beef with the earthy flavors of mushrooms, all tossed in a creamy sauce. It’s a weeknight dinner winner that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz macaroni
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Cook until beef is browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the cooked macaroni and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.

The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the macaroni, while the mushrooms add a delightful texture and depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try using a mix of wild mushrooms instead of just one variety.

Ground Beef and Macaroni Pie

Comfort food at its finest, this Ground Beef and Macaroni Pie combines hearty flavors with a crispy, cheesy topping that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the beef mixture, then transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the savory beef filling and the golden, crunchy topping—a textural delight that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Spinach

Looking for a hearty, one-pot meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes? This Ground Beef Macaroni with Spinach is your weeknight hero.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Add macaroni, reduce heat to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until macaroni is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in spinach until wilted. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the spinach and Parmesan adding a fresh, cheesy finish to the rich, savory beef and pasta. It’s a comforting bowl that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other spices.

Ground Beef and Macaroni Tacos

Who says tacos can’t have a pasta twist? These Ground Beef and Macaroni Tacos combine the heartiness of a classic taco with the comfort of macaroni for a fun, family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, mixing well to combine with the beef mixture.
6. Warm the tortillas according to package instructions. Spoon the beef and macaroni mixture into each tortilla, top with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.

The creamy macaroni mixed with spicy ground beef creates a taco filling that’s irresistibly hearty and satisfying, perfect for those nights when you can’t decide between pasta or tacos.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture while cooking.

Ground Beef Macaroni with Garlic Bread Crumbs

This Ground Beef Macaroni with Garlic Bread Crumbs is a comforting classic that gets a crunchy, flavorful twist, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels a little special.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and cooked macaroni, mixing well to combine. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs, minced garlic, remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden and crispy.

The garlic bread crumbs add a delightful crunch and aroma that elevates this simple dish into something truly memorable.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, toast the bread crumbs in a dry skillet before mixing with the garlic and oil.

Ground Beef and Macaroni with Hidden Veggies

Who says comfort food can’t be sneaky healthy? This Ground Beef and Macaroni with Hidden Veggies is a family favorite that packs in the goodness without skimping on flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup finely grated carrots
• 1 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the grated carrots and chopped spinach, cooking for another 2 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and let sit for 2 minutes until the cheese melts.

The magic of this dish lies in the seamless blend of textures and flavors, with the veggies melting into the rich, tomatoey sauce, making it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

Tip: For an extra veggie boost, try adding finely chopped zucchini or mushrooms in step 2.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious ground beef and macaroni recipes inspires your next meal! Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for easy access. Happy cooking!