f28ce484 3cdf 422b 9187 e795fe72759e

Slow Cooker Beefy Macaroni Stew

by

Slow Cooker Beefy Macaroni Stew

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

  1. Brown beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Add onion and garlic to the beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Transfer to slow cooker: Place the beef mixture into the slow cooker.
  4. Add liquids: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well.
  5. Season: Add salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly.
  6. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
  7. Add pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked macaroni.
  8. 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

Leave a Comment