When it comes to cozy, satisfying meals that bring everyone to the table, pasta is always a winner. This Spicy Cheesy Beef Macaroni is a dish that combines everything you love: tender ground beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and just the right amount of seasoning to give it a flavorful kick. What makes this recipe so special is how simple yet hearty it is. In less than 30 minutes, you can create a meal that feels indulgent and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that works for a quick weeknight dinner, a relaxed weekend lunch, or even meal prepping ahead of time. The flavor combination is perfectly balanced: the ground beef adds savory richness, the paprika and mustard bring depth and warmth, while the melted cheddar cheese creates that irresistible creaminess. Every bite is hearty, cheesy, and delicious – exactly what comfort food should be.
🛒 Ingredients (serves 4)
- 450 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 200 g (about 2 cups) uncooked macaroni
- 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) beef broth
- 250 ml (1 cup) milk
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tsp paprika powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 200 g (about 2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
👩🍳 Preparation
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through and crumbly. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
- Add onion & garlic: Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season: Mix in the tomato paste, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and onion mixture with the spices.
- Add liquids & pasta: Pour in the beef broth and milk, then add the uncooked macaroni. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.
- Melt the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar until it melts completely and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy while hot.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a balanced meal.
- Add steamed broccoli or peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Top with extra cheddar or a sprinkle of parmesan for a cheesier version.
- For spice lovers, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
🔄 Tips & Variations
- Make it lighter: Use lean ground beef or even ground turkey for a lower-fat version.
- Extra creamy: Swap half the milk with heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
- Veggie boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach before adding the cheese.
- Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
This Spicy Cheesy Beef Macaroni is the definition of comfort food – cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet delicious enough to serve when you want to impress your family with minimal effort. One bite, and it’s sure to become a new favorite at your table.
📌 Hashtags:
#CheesyPasta #GroundBeefRecipes #ComfortFood #EasyDinner #HomemadeGoodness