Description
A comforting one-skillet meal combining savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. This easy-to-make dish simmers all ingredients together to create a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dinner in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 2 cups (475 ml) beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 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 ensure a less greasy dish.
- Sauté Aromatics and Spices: Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant to build the flavor base.
- Combine Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and mix thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a boil to start cooking the pasta.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The macaroni should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed by the end of this step.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy consistency.
- Melt Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the cheese.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the spices.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
