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–+ servings

Hamburger Macaroni

Cozy one-pot Hamburger Macaroni with seasoned beef, tender pasta, and a thick tomato gravy. A fast, family-friendly dinner.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef lean if possible
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1.5 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp kosher salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper to taste
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with juices
  • 2.5 cup beef broth
  • 10 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  • Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, 4–5 minutes.
  • Drain excess fat if needed, then season with salt and black pepper.
  • Stir in the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  • Sprinkle in paprika and Italian seasoning; stir in Worcestershire and cook 30 seconds to bloom flavors.
  • Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juices, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
  • Add the dry macaroni and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and reduce to a gentle simmer.
  • Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender, 12–14 minutes. Uncover to thicken if needed.
  • Fold in half the cheddar until melted. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover off heat for 2 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Switch it up: add a diced green bell pepper with the onion, or swap cheddar for a sharp Colby-Jack blend. For a creamy twist, stir in 2–3 tbsp of cream cheese at the end. Leftovers keep 4 days in the fridge; thin with a splash of broth when reheating.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Hamburger Macaroni flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.