Skillet Beef and Macaroni is the type of comforting, all-in-one dinner that brings everyone running to the table. Juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and a savory tomato sauce come together in a single skillet for a meal that’s as easy as it is irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze and keeping dinnertime stress-free.
Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of savory beef, zesty tomato sauce, and tender macaroni is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—even for picky eaters.
Ready in 30 Minutes: Enjoy hearty comfort food on the busiest of nights—no oven required!
Customizable & Budget-Friendly: Adapt with what you have on hand and keep your grocery bill in check while still delivering big taste.

Skillet Beef and Macaroni Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Skillet Beef and Macaroni is how basic yet essential the ingredients are. Each one has a specific role in making the dish hearty, flavorful, and satisfyingly saucy—let’s break down what you need and why!

Ground beef (1-1/2 pounds): The star of the dish. Choose lean for less grease or go all-in for extra flavor.
Chopped onion (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma that balances the beefy richness.
Tomato sauce (2 cans, 8 ounces each): Builds the bold, tangy backbone of your sauce—don’t substitute with diced tomatoes if you want classic texture.
Water (1 cup): Helps perfectly cook the macaroni right in the sauce, so it soaks up every drop of flavor.
Macaroni (7 ounces): Elbow macaroni is classic, but any short pasta works; it drinks in the savory sauce as it cooks.
Chopped green pepper (1/2 cup): Provides a pop of color and a just-right hint of freshness with every bite.
Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): The secret flavor booster: it adds depth and a subtle, irresistible umami.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and makes everything pop.
Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough black pepper for balancing warmth.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to let your creativity run wild! Skillet Beef and Macaroni is endlessly customizable, making it a go-to for using up what you have or tailoring to your family’s favorites and dietary needs.

Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella just before serving for irresistible melty goodness.
Veggie Boost: Add diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms with the green pepper for a nutrition boost and extra texture.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or swap half the tomato sauce for spicy salsa for plenty of heat.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta—just monitor closely for doneness as cooking time may vary.
Different Proteins: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless crumble to fit your preferences.

How to Make Skillet Beef and Macaroni

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high and adding your ground beef and chopped onion. As the beef cooks, break it up with a spoon or spatula for evenly sized crumbles—the smaller they are, the more flavor they absorb! Cook until there’s no pink left and the onions are soft and fragrant. Drain off any excess fat if you like things leaner.

Step 2: Build the Sauce and Add Macaroni

Pour in the tomato sauce and water, stir in your chopped green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Give everything a stir, then add the uncooked macaroni straight into the skillet. This step is magic—the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up every savory note while thickening the base at the same time.

Step 3: Simmer and Serve

Bring the skillet mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer. Check and stir every so often; if the mixture gets too thick before the macaroni is tender, just add another splash of water. After 20–25 minutes, the pasta will be perfectly al dente and coated in a rich, beefy sauce. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed—then dig in while it’s piping hot!

Pro Tips for Making Skillet Beef and Macaroni

Choose the Right Pan: A wide, deep skillet ensures even cooking and plenty of space for the pasta to expand without sticking.
Let the Macaroni Soak: Stir occasionally as the pasta cooks to make sure it’s evenly nestled in the sauce—it’ll absorb more flavor this way!
Don’t Fear the Simmer: If the mixture looks dry before the macaroni’s done, add a splash or two of water for a perfectly saucy finish.
Flavor Layering: For an even richer result, sauté the onions until golden before adding beef and consider a pinch of garlic for extra depth.

How to Serve Skillet Beef and Macaroni

Garnishes

Top your Skillet Beef and Macaroni with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of green, or scatter shredded cheese over each serving and let it melt. Even a spoonful of sour cream or a little chopped green onion can make the plate look (and taste!) extra-special.

Side Dishes

This all-in-one meal still loves company! Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette, some buttery garlic bread, or even simple steamed vegetables to round out your feast without overshadowing your main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning Skillet Beef and Macaroni into mini cast iron pans for a fun, rustic presentation, or fill the center of a platter and surround it with colorful roasted veggies. For casual gatherings, serve straight from the skillet at the table for that homey, comforting vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully! Simply scoop any extra Skillet Beef and Macaroni into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a delicious repeat meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for busy weeknights. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip bag. Try to eat it within 2–3 months for the freshest flavors—thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the portion you need in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Or microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally until piping hot all the way through. The macaroni keeps its texture and soaks up even more flavor!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in Skillet Beef and Macaroni?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, any short-cut pasta such as shells, penne, or rotini will work nicely. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes might cook a bit faster or slower.
Is it possible to make Skillet Beef and Macaroni ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the entire dish in advance, then store in the fridge for a quick reheat later. Some people even say it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.
Can I add cheese directly to Skillet Beef and Macaroni?

Cheese lovers can definitely stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack right before serving—or sprinkle cheese over the top and let it melt under a lid for a gooey, comforting finish.
How do I prevent the macaroni from overcooking or sticking?

Stir the skillet occasionally while simmering and monitor the liquid level—add extra water if it gets too thick before the pasta is tender. This will help prevent sticking and ensure perfectly cooked, flavorful macaroni every time.

Final Thoughts

I can honestly say that Skillet Beef and Macaroni is one of those cozy, classic recipes you’ll find yourself craving again and again. If you’re looking for a simple, sure-fire weeknight winner that’s big on taste and comfort, you have to give this one a try—your family (and your future leftovers!) will thank you.

Skillet Beef and Macaroni Recipe