Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat And Macaroni Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Everyday Food

I love making this Hamburger Meat and Macaroni Skillet on busy weeknights when time is of the essence but I still want a hearty meal on the table. This dish combines ground beef and pasta in a single skillet, making cleanup easy and flavor packed. The creamy sauce with melted cheese coats the tender macaroni and savory beef perfectly. It’s a comfort food classic that my family loves, and I enjoy customizing it with whatever veggies I have on hand. I guarantee you’ll want seconds!

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:41:35.141Z

When I first stumbled upon this Hamburger Meat and Macaroni Skillet recipe, I was skeptical about how tasty a one-pan meal could be. But after my first bite, I was hooked! The combination of ground beef, elbows, and a creamy cheese sauce was everything I wanted on a busy night. Plus, because it's all cooked in the same skillet, it saved me precious time on cleanup!

I found that using a mix of spices really elevates the flavor. I often add a pinch of smoked paprika and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for that extra depth. It’s these little tweaks that make each batch uniquely delicious, and my family always requests it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan meal means minimal cleanup.
Rich, creamy sauce that envelops the macaroni.
Customizable with various vegetables or spices.

Understanding the Ingredients

In this Hamburger Meat and Macaroni Skillet, the role of each ingredient is crucial for achieving the right flavor and texture. The ground beef not only provides protein but also a savory richness that forms the backbone of the dish. Opting for 80/20 beef gives you a nice balance of flavor without being too greasy. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work as a substitute, but watch the cooking time as these can dry out more quickly.

Using elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes; shells or fusilli will add interesting textures. The canned diced tomatoes contribute acidity and moisture, enhancing the creamy texture of the sauce, while the cheddar cheese brings a comforting, melty quality. If you're looking for a sharper flavor, try using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for more depth.

The Cooking Process

Cooking the ingredients in a single skillet not only simplifies cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you add the macaroni to the skillet, make sure it is covered with enough liquid—this helps ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the delightful taste from the seasoned beef and tomatoes. If you find your pasta appears too dry while simmering, adding a little more water can help adjust the consistency.

After stirring in the milk and cheese, keeping the heat low is critical to avoid curdling the dairy. Stir continually until the mixture is glossy and creamy. I recommend using a wooden spoon for a gentle touch that won’t scratch your skillet. If the skillet gets too thick, you can add a splash of milk until you reach your desired creaminess; thick sauces should feel luxurious, not stiff.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Ingredients for Hamburger Meat and Macaroni Skillet

1 pound ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.

Instructions

Instructions:

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Then add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Cook the Macaroni

Add the elbow macaroni to the skillet, followed by the diced tomatoes (with juice) and 2 cups of water. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.

Add Cheese and Milk

Once the macaroni is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Consider serving with a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in chopped bell peppers or spinach before adding the cheese. You can also use different cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste.

Customizations and Variations

One of the best aspects of this Hamburger Meat and Macaroni Skillet is its versatility. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the mix for added nutrition and flavor. These can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic for a bit more depth before adding the beef. If you have frozen veggies, they can work too—just throw them in during the last few minutes of simmering.

For a kick of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce after adding the milk and cheese. This not only elevates the flavor but brings a new dimension of warmth. You can also substitute the Italian seasoning with taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist, transforming this comfort dish into a zesty delight.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating is a breeze—just place it back in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or water to maintain that creamy texture. Stir often to ensure even warming, and avoid high heat, which can lead to separation.

For longer storage, this dish freezes wonderfully. Simply portion it out into freezer-safe containers, allowing some space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat following the same stovetop method to restore its creamy sauce instead of using a microwave, which may make the pasta mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat macaroni?

Yes, whole wheat macaroni can be used for a healthier option. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may differ slightly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or milk.

→ Can this recipe be frozen?

Absolutely! You can freeze the skillet meal in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

→ What can I add for extra nutrition?

Consider adding chopped carrots or peas during the cooking process. They will cook quickly and boost the nutritional content of the dish.