One-Pot Beef & Macaroni

Family-friendly comfort food the whole household can share

Calories: ~500-600 per adult serving

Time: 30 minutes

Style: One pot • Freezer-friendly • Baby & toddler adaptable

This is one of those meals that makes life easier: one pot, minimal prep, loads of flavour - and no separate cooking for babies or kids.

Why this works for mums

• High-protein to support energy and satiety

• Iron-rich beef

• Lots of veg, finely chopped so everyone eats them

• Simple carbs for busy days (and better sleep later)

Ingredients (Serves 4 adults + little ones)

• 500g 5% beef mince

• 250g dry macaroni

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, finely diced

• 1 carrot, grated

• 1 courgette, grated

• 1 red pepper, very finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• 1 tbsp tomato purée

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp paprika

• 500g passata

• 500ml no or low-salt beef or veg stock

• 40g grated cheddar (optional)

Method (One Pot)

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the onion, carrot, courgette and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

3. Add the beef mince and garlic. Break it up well and cook until browned.

4. Stir in the tomato purée, oregano and paprika.

5. Add the passata, dry macaroni and stock. Stir well.

6. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thick.

7. Stir through cheese if using. Season adult portions at the table.

Baby, Toddler & Weaning Notes

• No added salt

• Smooth passata makes this easier to eat and digest

• Texture can be mashed or lightly blended

• Suitable for spoon-feeding or baby-led weaning once cooled

• Freezes well in small portions

Easy Swaps

• Beef → turkey mince

• Macaroni → small shells or orzo

• Add spinach at the end for extra greens

• Swap cheddar for cream cheese for a milder, creamier finish