Beef and Tomato Macaroni Skillet

Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
500 g (1 lb) ground beef
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1 ½ cups beef broth or water
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation Method
Beef and Tomato Macaroni Skillet is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta with rich, flavorful ground beef and a savory tomato sauce. It is a perfect meal for busy weeknights because it is simple to prepare, uses basic pantry ingredients, and cooks in one pan for easy cleanup. The result is a hearty, well-balanced dish that both adults and children enjoy.
To begin, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It is important not to overcook the pasta at this stage because it will continue cooking later when combined with the sauce. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside while you prepare the meat mixture.
In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about three to four minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent browning. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another thirty seconds until fragrant. Garlic cooks quickly, so be careful not to let it burn.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart using a wooden spoon and cook until it is fully browned. This usually takes about five to seven minutes. Make sure there is no pink remaining. If necessary, drain any excess fat from the pan to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the diced green and red bell peppers. Cook for about three to five minutes until they begin to soften slightly while still keeping a bit of texture. The peppers add natural sweetness and color, enhancing both the flavor and appearance of the dish.
Now it is time to build the sauce. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Pour in the beef broth or water to create a smooth and slightly loose sauce that will coat the pasta perfectly. Season the mixture with paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar if desired. The sugar helps balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes.
Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about ten to fifteen minutes. This step is important because it allows the flavors to blend together and develop depth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pan. You will notice the sauce thickening slightly as it cooks.
Once the sauce has reached a rich consistency, add the cooked macaroni directly into the skillet. Stir carefully to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the savory meat and tomato mixture. Let everything cook together for another five minutes on low heat. This final step allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive dish.
Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a small splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Remove the skillet from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps the sauce settle and thicken slightly.
For serving, spoon the macaroni into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. If you like, you can also sprinkle grated cheese on top, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for an extra creamy finish.
This dish is best enjoyed warm and pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a small amount of water to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
Beef and Tomato Macaroni Skillet is a timeless comfort meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With its balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta, it is both nourishing and delicious. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.