Loaded with protein and packed with bold flavors, this High Protein Macaroni with Ground Beef is the ultimate one-dish comfort food that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. Featuring hearty whole wheat or high-protein macaroni, savory ground beef, and a fragrant tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, onions, and a medley of Italian herbs, this recipe delivers a wholesome and delicious meal. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy finish, it’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep. In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a family-friendly dish that’s rich in muscle-building protein and bursting with flavor. Whether you're feeding a crowd or craving something cozy, this baked pasta dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and gently toss to combine with the sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Transfer the macaroni and beef mixture to a greased baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
Place the dish under a preheated broiler on high for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your high-protein macaroni with ground beef!
Calories |
2098 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 133.5 g | 171% | |
| Saturated Fat | 56.8 g | 284% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 449 mg | 150% | |
| Sodium | 3642 mg | 158% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 104.9 g | 38% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.4 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 28.4 g | ||
| Protein | 136.5 g | 273% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1464 mg | 113% | |
| Iron | 14.8 mg | 82% | |
| Potassium | 2725 mg | 58% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.