Description
This One-Skillet Cheesy Beef and Macaroni is a hearty and comforting meal that combines browned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of cheeses all cooked together in one pan. With savory tomato and beef broth simmering the pasta to perfection, it’s an easy, flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Pasta
- 2 cups (475 ml) beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Cheeses and Garnish
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Spices: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant to build flavor.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine all ingredients. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and mix well. Bring the mixture to a boil to start cooking the pasta.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts evenly into a creamy texture.
- Top with Additional Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Cover the skillet and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt fully.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot for a comforting and cheesy one-pot meal.
Notes
- Drain excess fat after browning beef to reduce greasiness.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent macaroni from sticking to the skillet.
- You can swap cheddar with mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend for variation.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a fresh touch but is optional.
- Ensure the macaroni is fully cooked before adding the cheese for best texture.
