Looking for an easy, satisfying meal? This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Skillet is a perfect skillet dinner recipe for busy weeknights, delivering hearty comfort food in one pan. You’ll love how quickly this flavorful dish comes together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 for good flavor, or leaner ground beef if you prefer. Ground turkey is a great alternative.
- Elbow Macaroni: Any small pasta shape works well, like ditalini or small shells.
- Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack or a Colby-Jack blend also melts beautifully.
- Diced Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used for a smoother sauce.
- Beef Broth: Vegetable broth works too.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet with a lid, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Macaroni
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Finish with Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture. Cover the skillet again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become gooey.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Uncover the skillet and give it a gentle stir to incorporate the melted cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Serve your delicious Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Skillet immediately.
Variation Ideas:
- Add Veggies: Stir in a cup of frozen peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice bit of heat.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese with the cheddar for an even creamier result.
- Different Cheese: Try a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for an extra cheesy pull.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use a different type of ground meat? Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken are good alternatives.
- What if I don’t have a lid for my skillet? You can cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil while the macaroni cooks.
- Can I make this ahead of time? This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers reheat well. The macaroni may absorb more liquid over time.
- Why is my macaroni still hard? Ensure you’re simmering the dish on low heat with the lid on, and give it enough time. Adding a little more broth or water might be needed.
- Can I freeze this skillet dinner recipe? While you can freeze it, the pasta texture might become a bit soft upon thawing and reheating. It’s generally best fresh or refrigerated.
- How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom? Stir the macaroni occasionally while it simmers to keep it from sticking.