When it comes to simple, satisfying, and nostalgic meals, few dishes can compete with hamburger and macaroni. This one-pot wonder brings together savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, creating a dish that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a budget-friendly meal, or a comforting plate of homemade goodness, this recipe is a must-have in your rotation.
Why This Recipe is a Comfort Food Classic
Hamburger and macaroni has been a staple in American households for decades. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility—a dish that can be made with pantry staples and customized in endless ways.
Some may recognize it as “goulash” or “American chop suey,” depending on where they grew up, but the concept remains the same: ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful sauce that comes together effortlessly in one pan.
The rich, beefy flavor, the tangy tomatoes, and the satisfying chew of pasta make this a dish that both kids and adults love. It’s the type of meal that tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for leftovers and meal prep.
Ingredients:
- Macaroni: 2 cups, uncooked
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Ground Beef: 1 pound
- Yellow Onion: 1, chopped (or a mix of green onion and yellow onion)
- Seasoned Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chili Pepper Flakes: A pinch
- Celery Seed: 1/2 teaspoon
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: To taste
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook macaroni until al dente, then drain (reserving 1/2 cup pasta water).
- Brown the Beef and Onions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in chopped onions, cooking until soft (about 4–6 minutes).
- Add Seasonings & Tomatoes:
- Stir in seasoned salt, chili flakes, and celery seed.
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) and Worcestershire sauce.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Combine the Pasta & Sauce:
- Add drained macaroni to the beef mixture, stirring well.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water for a looser consistency.
- Final Touch & Serve:
- Stir in chopped parsley and let cook for 5 more minutes.
- Taste and adjust salt & black pepper as needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
What Makes This Dish So Popular?
Hamburger and macaroni is more than just a simple pasta dish—it’s a meal that stands the test of time. Here’s why people keep coming back to it:
1. Budget-Friendly and Accessible
This recipe uses affordable, everyday ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a hearty, satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
2. One-Pot Convenience
The beauty of this dish lies in its efficiency. Everything is cooked in one pan, which means fewer dishes to clean and a meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it a great option for batch cooking. The flavors develop even more overnight, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.
4. Customizable to Any Taste
The base recipe is delicious on its own, but it also serves as a blank canvas for different flavors. Add spices, veggies, or cheese to make it your own.
5. Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved
If you’re looking for a meal that pleases picky eaters, this is it. The mild yet rich flavors make it a family favorite that even the most selective eaters will enjoy.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Hamburger and Macaroni
Although this is a straightforward dish, a few small adjustments can take it from good to great.
1. Brown the Meat Properly
Instead of just stirring the ground beef, let it develop a deep, golden sear before breaking it up. This adds extra flavor and makes the dish more savory.
2. Season as You Go
Adding seasoning at each stage—while cooking the beef, while simmering the sauce, and before serving—ensures maximum flavor in every bite.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni just until al dente. Since it will continue to absorb liquid from the sauce, slightly undercooking it prevents mushy pasta.
4. Adjust the Consistency
If the dish looks too dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a few extra minutes to thicken.
5. Add Fresh Herbs for a Burst of Flavor
A handful of fresh parsley or basil at the end brightens up the dish and adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
Creative Variations to Try
One of the best things about hamburger and macaroni is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
1. Cheesy Beef Macaroni
Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the pasta during the final few minutes of cooking for an extra creamy, cheesy version.
2. Spicy Kick Version
If you love bold flavors, add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to bring some heat to the dish.
3. Italian-Style Hamburger Macaroni
Swap the Worcestershire sauce for Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and a pinch of fennel seeds to give the dish a more traditional pasta flavor.
4. Loaded Veggie Version
Boost the nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini to the skillet while cooking the beef.
5. Tex-Mex Inspired Macaroni
Use taco seasoning instead of traditional spices, and top the dish with sour cream, avocado, and shredded cheese for a Tex-Mex twist.
6. Healthier Alternative
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, and use whole wheat pasta for a lighter but equally satisfying version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! While macaroni is traditional, you can use penne, rotini, shells, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How Long Does This Dish Last in the Fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
3. Can I Freeze Hamburger and Macaroni?
Yes! Let the dish cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
4. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook everything except the pasta, then reheat the sauce and add freshly cooked pasta before serving. This keeps the pasta from getting too soft.
5. Can I Make It Dairy-Free?
Yes! This recipe doesn’t require dairy, but if you add cheese, simply use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make it lactose-free.
6. What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Dish?
For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Meal Rotation
Hamburger and macaroni is more than just a quick and easy meal—it’s a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy. With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and endless adaptability, this dish is perfect for:
- Busy weeknights when you need a meal on the table fast.
- Leftover-friendly meal prep for easy lunches and dinners.
- Feeding a crowd on a budget without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizing to suit different tastes by adding different seasonings and mix-ins.
Conclusion: A Classic Dish That Never Goes Out of Style
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal, hamburger and macaroni is the answer. It’s a dish that warms the soul, fills the stomach, and brings a sense of nostalgia with every bite.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try one of the creative variations, one thing is certain: this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.
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Easy Hamburger and Macaroni Recipe | Hearty & Delicious
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Hamburger and Macaroni recipe is the perfect blend of hearty, flavorful, and comforting. Juicy ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce come together to create a dish that’s quick, easy, and loved by everyone. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or prepping for leftovers, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped (or a mix of chopped green onion greens and yellow onion)
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- Pinch of chili pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (use about 1 tablespoon of salt for 2 quarts of water).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water, and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned. Stir infrequently to allow the beef to develop a nice sear.
- Cook the Onions:
- Once the beef is mostly cooked, add the chopped onions.
- Cook for 4–6 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the seasoned salt, chili pepper flakes, and celery seed.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix everything together and simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture.
- Stir to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the mixture seems too dry.
- Finish and Serve:
- Mix in the chopped parsley and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- Cheesy Option: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
- Make It Spicy: Add more chili pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezer-Friendly: This dish freezes well. Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American
