This stovetop 4-ingredient macaroni vance is the kind of simple, filling supper that turns a handful of pantry basics into something hearty and comforting. It has that old-fashioned, thrifty charm of a family meal stretched to feed a tableful, with tender macaroni simmered in a savory tomato-rich sauce until every bite is glossy, soft, and full of flavor.
Serve this with buttered bread, saltine crackers, or a simple cucumber and onion salad to balance the rich, savory juices. If you want to round it out for a bigger meal, a side of green beans or corn on the cob fits especially well and keeps that late-summer supper feeling on the table.
Stovetop 4-Ingredient Macaroni Vance
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 teaspoons salt
Directions
1. Place a large black pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and salt, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the uncooked macaroni along with 2 1/2 cups of water, stir well, and return to a steady simmer.
4. Cover loosely and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring a few times, until the macaroni is tender and the mixture is thick and glossy. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters: If your family likes a smoother texture, use tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes for a more even, less chunky finish.
Make it stretch farther: Add a little extra water and another 1/2 cup of macaroni if you need to feed a few more people, then season to taste at the end.
Richer flavor: A pinch of black pepper or a small diced onion cooked with the beef adds more depth, even though the original beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity.
Leftover tip: This thickens as it sits, so when reheating, stir in a splash of water before warming on the stove to bring back that saucy texture.