Most Addicting Stuffed Peppers Pasta Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty pasta dish, especially when it’s packed with robust flavors and easy-to-make ingredients. Inspired by our sister site ChicInCubicles.com, and created by my fiancé this recipe for stuffed peppers pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

@bykimberlyfaye Recipe on ByKimberlyFaye.com ✨🫶 #stuffedpeppers #weeklydinner #dinnerideas #dinnerrecipes #easydinnerideas #easypastarecipe #pastashells ♬ c`est si bon – Eartha Kitt

Whether you’re looking to impress your family with a homemade meal or whip up something special for yourself, this tomato beef macaroni recipe checks all the boxes. With its rich tomato-based sauce, tender pasta, and savory ground beef, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious meal that yields 4-6 servings, perfect for sharing or saving for leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following ingredients from your pantry and refrigerator:

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon crushed fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can Italian-style stewed tomatoes
• 1 can condensed tomato soup
• 1 Parmesan rind
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can chicken stock
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound dried macaroni (such as large shells, elbows, or any short pasta)

Instructions: How to Make Tomato Beef Macaroni

Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Remove any excess grease, leaving just enough to coat the bottom of the pot lightly.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the pot with the ground beef. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Spices
Next, stir in the chopped garlic, crushed fennel seeds, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté for another minute to bloom the spices and garlic, enhancing the dish’s depth of flavor.

Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the Italian-style stewed tomatoes, condensed tomato soup, chicken stock, and Parmesan rind. Stir everything together. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen macaroni until just al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1-2 cups of pasta cooking water before draining.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
After 30 minutes, remove the Parmesan rind from the sauce and discard it. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed for the perfect consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil. Pair with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Pasta: Large shells or other short pasta work best for holding the sauce.
• Customize It: Add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrition. A splash of red wine can elevate the sauce.
• Don’t Skip the Parmesan Rind: It’s the secret to a rich, umami flavor. If unavailable, use a small wedge of Parmesan.
• Layer Your Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Save the Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time!

Why This Recipe Works

This tomato beef macaroni recipe combines pantry staples with the comfort of a homemade meal. Browning the beef adds a savory base, while aromatic spices like fennel and rosemary elevate the dish. The Parmesan rind ties everything together with a creamy, umami depth, creating an unforgettable sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider these options:

• Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad.
• Bread: Warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
• Wine: Pair with a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot.
• Dessert: End with tiramisu or vanilla gelato.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken? Yes, but the flavor will be lighter. Adjust seasoning accordingly.
2. Can I make this vegetarian? Skip the beef and use plant-based meat alternatives or extra veggies. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock.
3. Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of water.
4. What can I use instead of the Parmesan rind? A small wedge of Parmesan or grated cheese works as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

This stuffed peppers pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful dishes. Simple yet satisfying, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Inspired by ChicInCubicles.com, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your tips and tweaks in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!