Hard Times One-Pot Beef and Macaroni

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Steps

1. 1 Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
2. 2 Stir in the macaroni, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, basil, black pepper, and salt.
3. 3 Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
4. 4 Cover and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender.
5. 5 Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes.
6. 6 Stir in the cheddar cheese if using, until melted.

Equipment

• Large pot with lid
• Wooden spoon

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• Use ground pork if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Substitute fresh herbs for dried if available.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Steamed broccoli

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves with the beef.
• Add a splash of hot sauce for a kick if you like it spicy.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy meal.

FAQ