Description
This Slow Cooker Beefy Macaroni Stew is the ultimate comfort meal—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Tender ground beef, soft elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato-based sauce come together in one pot to create a warm and satisfying dish the whole family will love. Slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen, giving the stew a thick, almost chili-like consistency with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and ideal for busy days when you want a filling, homemade meal without much effort. Every bite is cozy, meaty, and full of classic home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
MAIN INGREDIENTS:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
SAUCE BASE:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
SEASONING:
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
OPTIONAL ADD-INS:
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- ½ cup chopped bell peppers
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté aromatics: Add onion and garlic to the beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Transfer to slow cooker: Place the beef mixture into the slow cooker.
- Add liquids: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Add pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked macaroni.
- Finish: Cook until pasta is tender, then stir in cheese if using. Serve hot.
Tips, Notes & Q&A
- Add pasta near the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For a thicker stew, reduce broth slightly.
- Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Stir occasionally after adding pasta for even cooking.
Q: Can I cook pasta separately?
A: Yes, and then mix it in just before serving for better texture.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, but freeze without pasta for best results.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Servings & Nutrition (Approx.)
- Servings: 5–6
- Calories: ~380 kcal per serving
- Protein: 22 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g