Slow Cooker Beef and Macaroni

Slow cooker beef and macaroni is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner when you want something hearty, cheesy, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This old-fashioned ground beef and macaroni recipe combines tender elbow pasta, savory beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting family meal everyone will love.

The best part? You don’t need to brown the beef or boil the pasta separately. Simply layer the raw ground beef and dry macaroni in your slow cooker, add the sauce and broth, and let everything cook together. With just six simple ingredients, this easy crockpot beef and macaroni recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, budget-friendly meal planning, and cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80–90% lean)
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni (about 8 ounces)
• 1 can (24–26 ounces) pasta sauce or tomato basil marinara
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for serving
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste

Instructions

1. Lightly coat the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Break the raw ground beef into small pieces and spread it evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Pour the dry elbow macaroni over the ground beef, creating an even layer without stirring.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the pasta sauce, beef broth, and salt until combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the macaroni, making sure the pasta is mostly covered with liquid.
5. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 to 2 ½ hours or LOW for 4 to 4 ½ hours. About halfway through cooking, carefully stir everything to break up the beef and distribute the pasta evenly. Replace the lid promptly.
6. Check that the ground beef has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and that the macaroni is tender. Cooking times can vary by slow cooker, so check the dish before the end of the suggested cooking time.
7. Switch the slow cooker to WARM or turn it off. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir gently until melted and creamy. Let the dish rest, covered, for 5–10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
8. Serve warm with extra shredded cheese and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.

Benefits of This Easy Crockpot Recipe

1. Minimal preparation: There’s no need to brown the ground beef or boil the macaroni separately, saving time and reducing the number of dishes to wash.

2. Budget-friendly ingredients: Ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, broth, and cheese are familiar grocery staples that make this an economical family dinner.

3. Perfect for busy weeknights: The slow cooker handles most of the cooking, leaving you free to prepare other things while dinner comes together.

4. A satisfying family meal: Ground beef provides protein, while macaroni supplies carbohydrates for energy. Cheese adds richness and calcium.

5. Easy to customize: Add frozen peas, mixed vegetables, or diced bell peppers, or swap cheddar for Colby Jack or mozzarella to create a different flavor.

6. Great for meal planning: This recipe makes six servings, making it convenient for family dinners and leftovers for another meal.

Tips for the Best Beef and Macaroni

• Choose a flavorful pasta sauce: Tomato basil or roasted garlic marinara adds extra flavor without requiring additional seasonings.
• Avoid overcooking the pasta: Slow cookers vary, so begin checking toward the early end of the cooking time.
• Make it extra creamy: Stir in ½ cup of evaporated milk or heavy cream along with the cheese.
• Add more vegetables: Frozen peas or mixed vegetables can make the meal more colorful and varied.
• Adjust the consistency: If the mixture looks too dry before the pasta is tender, add a little extra broth. If it is too thin, allow it to rest covered for a few minutes after cooking.
• Store leftovers safely: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within two hours. Reheat thoroughly, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Beef and Macaroni

Pair this cheesy beef and macaroni with steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, roasted broccoli, or buttered vegetables. Garlic bread or toasted bread also makes a delicious side for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put dry macaroni directly into a slow cooker?

Yes. Dry elbow macaroni can cook directly in the sauce and broth, absorbing the liquid as it softens. Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent mushy pasta.

Do I need to brown the ground beef first?

Browning is not required for this particular method, but raw ground beef must be broken into small pieces, cooked thoroughly, and verified to reach 160°F (71°C). For more even cooking and easier fat removal, you can brown and drain the beef before adding it.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Colby Jack, mozzarella, or a cheddar blend can all work well. Stir the cheese in at the end for a smooth, creamy finish.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat larger portions on the stovetop until steaming hot. Add a small amount of broth or water to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.