📝 Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 lb (450g) ground beef (can mix with ground pork or turkey if preferred)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
2 cups beef broth or water
1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
1 bay leaf
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
🍳 Instructions
1. Cook Beef & Aromatics
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Drain excess grease if needed.
Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add Liquids & Seasonings
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a low simmer.
3. Cook the Pasta
Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni.
Cover and simmer on low for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Optional Cheesy Finish
Remove from heat, discard bay leaf.
Stir in shredded cheddar if using for extra comfort and creaminess.
5. Serve Warm
Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.
Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
🔁 Tips & Variations
Add Veggies: Try chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Stretch It: Add an extra cup of pasta and a little more broth for bigger portions.
Make Ahead: It stores well — tastes even better the next day!