Classic Tomato Beef Macaroni

A comforting, savory blend of tender beef, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly al dente macaroni in a rich, glossy sauce. This quick, hearty meal is a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 200 g macaroni
• 150 g beef, thinly sliced and marinated
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato sauce or paste
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• to taste salt
• to taste water

Instructions

1. 1Boil the macaroni

   

   Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of oil. Carefully add the macaroni and cook until tender. Once done, remove the macaroni from the water and set aside.

   Tip: Adding a little oil to the water prevents the macaroni from sticking together while it cooks.
2. 2Drain the macaroni

   

   Use a strainer to remove the cooked macaroni from the pot of boiling water. Ensure all excess water is drained off before setting the macaroni aside for the next step.

   Tip: Shake the strainer well to remove as much water as possible so it doesnt dilute the sauce later.
3. 3Sauté aromatics

   

   Heat oil in a clean pan over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and diced red onion. Sauté until the aromatics are fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.

   Tip: Keep the heat moderate to ensure the garlic doesnt burn, which can make the base taste bitter.
4. 4Cook the tomatoes

   

   Add the prepared tomato pieces to the pan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir frequently and cook until the tomatoes break down and become soft and pulpy.

   Tip: Pressing the tomatoes with your spatula can help release their juices faster and create a richer sauce base.
5. 5Add tomato paste

   

   Pour the tomato sauce or paste into the pan. Stir well to combine it thoroughly with the cooked onions, garlic, and tomato pieces, ensuring an even consistency.

   Tip: If using tomato paste, toast it briefly in the oil before adding liquid to deepen the flavor profile.
6. 6Simmer the sauce

   

   Pour water into the pan to achieve the desired sauce consistency. Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture simmer for about three minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

   Tip: Simmering ensures the sauce thickens slightly and develops a cohesive, savory flavor.
7. 7Add the marinated beef

   

   Carefully add the marinated beef slices into the pan with the simmering tomato base. Stir gently to ensure the beef is evenly coated and cook until the beef is tender and cooked through.

   Tip: Do not overcook the beef, as it can become tough; keep the heat at a steady simmer.
8. 8Combine with macaroni

   

   Add the pre-cooked, drained macaroni into the pan containing the beef and tomato sauce. Toss and stir everything together thoroughly so that each piece of macaroni is well-coated in the flavorful sauce.

   Tip: Ensure the macaroni is well-drained before adding it to avoid watering down the sauce.
9. 9Season and finish

   

   Season the mixture with salt and a splash of light soy sauce. Continue to stir and mix well over the heat until the seasonings are fully incorporated and the dish is hot and ready to serve.

   Tip: Adjust the salt and soy sauce to your personal taste preference.

Storage & Reheating

Burn It Off

Frequently Asked Questions