Cheesy Beef One-Pot

Name: Cheesy Beef One-Pot
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes; 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; Salt as needed; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 1 lb of macaroni noodles; Pepper as needed; 2 tablespoons Italian herbs; 3 cups of beef broth; 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: September 22, 2025

Print Recipe

Introduction to Cheesy Beef One-Pot

Boy, do I understand the rush of busy weekdays! When dinner time rolls around, a satisfying meal like Cheesy Beef One-Pot is just what you need to take the edge off. This easy, one-pot dish combines tender ground beef, macaroni noodles, and a rich, cheesy sauce into a deliciously comforting meal. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or trying to impress your loved ones, this recipe is here to save the day. After all, who wouldn’t want a quick, flavorful meal ready in just thirty minutes?

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef One-Pot

This Cheesy Beef One-Pot is the hero of my busy weeknight dinners! It’s simply effortless to whip up. Just one pot means fewer dishes to wash, and you’ll have a wholesome meal in no time. The buttery gooeyness of melted cheddar mingled with the savory flavors of ground beef creates a delightful taste sensation. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Your family will be asking for seconds—trust me on this!

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef One-Pot

Gathering fresh ingredients is like building the foundation of a cozy dinner, and for this Cheesy Beef One-Pot, here’s what you’ll need:

Crushed Tomatoes: This adds a tangy base and brings the dish together, lending a comforting warmth.
Ground Beef: Rich and hearty, it’s the star protein in this dish, making it filling and satisfying.
Onion Powder: It’s convenient and gives a deeper flavor that enhances the beef without the fuss of chopping.
Garlic Powder: You can never have enough garlic! It provides that savory depth that sings in every bite.
Salt: Essential for elevating all flavors. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to take away.
Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a lovely fragrance, creating mouthwatering aromas as you cook.
Macaroni Noodles: These lovely little tubes hold onto the cheesy goodness and make the dish undeniably comforting.
Pepper: A dash of pepper brings a subtle kick, balancing out the creaminess of the cheese.
Italian Herbs: A mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme brings warmth and just the right hint of earthiness.
Beef Broth: This gives a luscious, savory base, ensuring the pasta cooks perfectly while soaking up flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The ultimate cheesy finale! You could swap it for your favorite cheese if you wish, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a fun twist.

All these ingredients blend beautifully to create a meal that feels like a warm hug! Don’t forget, you can check the exact quantities at the bottom of the article for printing!

How to Make Cheesy Beef One-Pot

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into making this delightful Cheesy Beef One-Pot. Follow these clear steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with your spatula as it cooks. You want it browned and crumbled, that way it’ll mix perfectly with the rest of the ingredients.

When the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, look for any excess grease. If you see some pooling at the bottom of the pot, carefully drain it out. Nobody wants a greasy meal!

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Now it’s time to bring some serious flavor into play! Toss in minced garlic, onion powder, and your Italian herbs. This is crucial; these little flavor bombs will enhance the beef, making every bite irresistible.

Give everything a good stir, letting those spices release their delicious aromas. Trust me, your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Once the seasonings are well-mixed, pour in your beef broth and the can of crushed tomatoes. This combination creates that velvety sauce we love!

Stir everything together and bring it to a light boil. Keep an eye on it—once you see bubbles, it’s time to move on to the next step!

Step 4: Cook Macaroni

Here comes the fun part! Add the macaroni noodles to the pot and stir them in. Make sure they’re submerged in the liquid, as this will help them cook evenly.

Let them cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. And if you notice the mixture looking a bit dry, don’t be shy—add a splash more broth!

Step 5: Stir in Cheese

Once your elbows are cooked just right, it’s cheese time! Turn down the heat and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts into that creamy goodness we all dream about.

If it needs a little extra love, taste it and adjust the seasonings with salt or pepper as needed. The goal is to hit that perfect flavor balance!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Now that your Cheesy Beef One-Pot is looking scrumptious, it’s time to plate it up!

Dish it out into bowls, sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top if you like, and enjoy it while it’s hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or warm bread for dipping.

And there you have it! A comforting meal in just one pot ensuring minimal mess and maximum taste!

Tips for Success

Don’t skip draining the ground beef; it keeps your dish from being greasy.
Stir the macaroni occasionally while cooking to prevent it from clumping together.
For a creamy twist, try adding a splash of milk or cream with the cheese.
Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content if you’re watching your intake.
Feel free to add in veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Equipment Needed

Large Pot: A sturdy pot is essential. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven works great too.
Spatula: For stirring the beef and ingredients. A wooden or silicone spatula is perfect.
Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring broth and cheese—easy to find!
Bowl: To serve your delicious meal and impress your family!

Variations for Cheesy Beef One-Pot

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for lentils or brown mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based meal.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Gouda for a smoky flavor!
Extra Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutrition and color of the dish.
Spicy Kick: Mix in jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave some heat in their meals.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free macaroni and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free to keep it friendly for all diets.

Serving Suggestions

Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the Cheesy Beef One-Pot.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
Fruity Drink: Pair with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade to balance the flavors.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or extra cheese on top for a pop of color and flavor!

FAQs about Cheesy Beef One-Pot

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or black beans. Each option will give you a distinct flavor while keeping the heartiness of the dish.

Is this Cheesy Beef One-Pot a good recipe for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in individual containers. Just reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy a quick dinner on busy days.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make it a day ahead! Just let it cool before storing it in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to maintain that creamy texture.

How can I customize the flavors?

Feel free to add your favorite spices or sauces! A splash of Worcestershire sauce or some smoked paprika can elevate the flavors significantly. Don’t be shy—get creative!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No problem! Just use gluten-free macaroni and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free. It’s an easy swap that still delivers all the flavor without the gluten!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be joyful, and this Cheesy Beef One-Pot embodies all the warmth and comfort of home. It’s not just about throwing ingredients into a pot; it’s about creating a meal that brings family together. I love how this dish transforms a busy evening into a cozy gathering filled with laughter and contentment. You’ll find smiles around the table as everyone savors those cheesy bites. With just one pot to clean, it’s a win for you, too! Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your weeknight rotation!