Cheesy Beef Tomato Macaroni Stew -

Warm, hearty, and delicious, Cheesy Beef Tomato Macaroni Stew is a perfect family dish that combines savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato broth. This recipe is a one-pot wonder that allows for easy cleanup, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. With its robust flavors, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite that will leave everyone satisfied. This stew isn’t just filling; it packs a nutritional punch that will please both kids and adults alike.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Beef Tomato Macaroni Stew is not only simple and quick to prepare, but it is also budget-friendly and versatile. You can tailor the recipe based on what you have in your kitchen, adding vegetables or even varying the types of cheese according to taste. The dish is loaded with comfort, offering a delightful fusion of ingredients that meld beautifully together in a rich, cheesy broth. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring that leftovers can be enjoyed the next day. The hour of cooking gives you the perfect opportunity to unwind while the flavors develop in the pot.

Ingredients

The following ingredients will deliver a delicious Cheesy Beef Tomato Macaroni Stew that serves six hearty portions:

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground beef
2 tsp chili powder
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
2 cans (10.75 oz each) condensed tomato soup
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
32 oz beef broth
4 cups water
2 cups dry pasta macaroni or shells

Directions

Step 1: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook until it is browned, approximately 7-10 minutes. After the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat from the pot to avoid a greasy stew.

Step 3: Sprinkle in the chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir the spices into the meat mixture, allowing them to cook for an additional minute, which helps to release their flavors.

Step 4: Pour in the condensed tomato soup and diced tomatoes, followed by the beef broth and water. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Step 5: Once simmering, add the dry pasta. Allow the stew to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is just tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: After the pasta is done, take a taste and adjust any seasonings as needed. If you’d like a creamier texture, you can stir in shredded cheese at this point to meld into the stew. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Beef Tomato Macaroni Stew

To enhance flavor depth, consider browning the ground beef with a pinch of sugar or some Worcestershire sauce.
Feel free to throw in some frozen corn or peas for extra nutrition and color.
For a creamier consistency, stir in a couple of cups of shredded cheese at the end of cooking.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
This stew can also be frozen! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will make for a lighter meal while still maintaining that hearty texture.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it plant-based.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can use chicken broth or even water, but the beef broth adds a rich flavor that is hard to replicate. If using water, consider seasoning more generously.

How can I store leftovers?

Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Indeed! Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Tomato Macaroni Stew is not just a simple meal; it’s a cozy dish that unites family and friends around the dinner table. Its rich flavors, versatile ingredients, and comforting nature make it a go-to recipe, especially for busy weeknight dinners. Enjoy this easy dish that comes together in one pot, promising to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. With a burst of flavors in every bite, this stew will surely become a cherished staple in your home!