Classic Creole Macaroni

This Classic Creole Macaroni is a hearty skillet meal made with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, peppers, celery, and a touch of Creole spice.

It’s savory, slightly spicy, and full of comforting Southern flavor. Everything comes together in one skillet, making it a practical weeknight dinner that still feels rich and satisfying.

Serve it hot with cornbread, a green salad, or extra shredded cheese on top.

Classic Creole Macaroni

Ingredients

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 ounces, undrained
• 1 can tomato sauce, 8 ounces
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon Creole seasoning, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Up to 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, as needed
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Cook the macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the elbow macaroni until just tender.

Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Drain the macaroni and set aside.

2. Brown the beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Add the ground beef and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.

Drain excess grease if needed.

3. Cook the vegetables

Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery.

Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Build the Creole sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, thyme, Creole seasoning, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce.

Mix until everything is well combined.

5. Simmer

Reduce the heat to medium-low.

Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

If it becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

6. Add the macaroni

Stir the cooked macaroni into the beef and tomato mixture.

Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

7. Melt the cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top.

Cover the skillet for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

8. Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Bold, hearty, and full of classic Creole-inspired flavor, this easy skillet dinner is perfect for busy evenings, casual family meals, or potluck-style gatherings.