Custrd is out on the App Store — Download it free →
Back to recipes

Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef

A quick and hearty one-pan meal combining elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato-cheese sauce. Ready in about 20 minutes, this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

Total time
20 min
Servings
4
Calories
650
Protein
35g
Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef
Comfort FoodAmericanBeefCreamyHeartyWeeknight DinnerMain CourseDinner

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook the 8 oz elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the 1 lb ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Season with 0.5 tsp salt and 0.25 tsp black pepper.

  3. 3

    Stir in the 15 oz tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

  4. 4

    Add the cooked macaroni and 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well coated, about 2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Tools you’ll need

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

Custrd is a free iOS app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations.