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One-Pot Cowboy Beef Macaroni Skillet

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A hearty and flavorful one-skillet meal loaded with ground beef, tender pasta, and bold seasonings. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound ground beef

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

2 cups beef broth

1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup frozen corn

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Optional toppings: chopped green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

Add onion and garlic; cook 2–3 minutes until softened.

Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and uncooked macaroni. Stir to combine.

Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

Stir in black beans and corn. Cook 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.

Serve hot with optional toppings.

 

Notes

Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.

Great for meal prep—leftovers reheat well.

Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based cheese or omitting the cheese.