Macaroni with Ground Beef and Vegetables

A hearty, flavorful, and comforting one-pan meal made with tender macaroni, savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for an easy family dinner!

Ingredients

• 12 oz macaroni pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1 carrot, finely diced or grated
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup water or beef broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and mushrooms. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the water or beef broth and stir well.
6. Reduce the heat and allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, so all the flavors can combine.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and gently stir until the pasta is completely coated with the beef and vegetable sauce.
8. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the pan for a few minutes until the cheese melts, or place the mixture in a baking dish and broil briefly until golden and bubbly.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious macaroni with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or warm crusty bread.

A complete, flavorful, and comforting meal that the whole family will love!