Description
A comforting and hearty macaroni and beef skillet dinner featuring ground beef simmered with tomatoes and herbs, combined with tender elbow macaroni and optional melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring the skillet is well-heated before adding ingredients.
- Sauté onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma without browning.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
- Simmer sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the mixture simmer gently for 10–15 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine macaroni: Add the cooked and drained elbow macaroni to the beef mixture and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Melt cheese (optional): If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts, creating a creamy topping.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm as a satisfying main course meal.
Notes
- This recipe is excellent for meal prep and can be made ahead, then reheated for convenience.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
- For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the skillet while sautéing the onions.
