Vegetarian Macaroni with Ground Beef

Craving comfort food that’s both hearty and meat-free? This Vegetarian Macaroni with Ground Beef is a satisfying twist on the classic favorite, swapping traditional ground beef for plant-based ground meat while maintaining all the robust flavors you love. Tender macaroni pasta is generously coated in a rich, savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and a fragrant blend of dried oregano and basil. A splash of vegetable broth deepens the flavor, while a touch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat. Topped with melty Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil, this 40-minute, family-friendly dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you're embracing vegetarian dining or simply looking for a delicious alternative, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz macaroni pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium, chopped onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 12 oz plant-based ground meat
• 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese
• 0.25 cup, chopped fresh basil leaves

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.

Step 3

Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the plant-based ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it is browned.

Step 5

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth.

Step 6

Season the mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Lower the heat to a simmer and let the sauce cook for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 8

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss to coat it with the sauce evenly.

Step 9

Serve the vegetarian macaroni hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1606.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2842.7

Total Fat 117.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 35.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.9g
Cholesterol 52.7mg	0%
Sodium 4996.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 338.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 32.0g	0%
Total Sugars 36.6g
Protein 129.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 867.9mg	0%
Iron 22.9mg	0%
Potassium 3550.8mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.0%

Protein: 17.7%

Carbs: 46.3%