Description
This easy, cheesy one-pot meal combines tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a zesty, creamy sauce for the ultimate homemade comfort food. Skip the boxed version and enjoy this quick, family-friendly dinner made from scratch!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8 oz medium pasta (shells or large elbows)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- In a 12-inch skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Liquids & Seasoning
- Stir in 1 ¾ cups beef broth, milk, tomato sauce, onion powder, chili powder, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Add the pasta and cover the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Uncover and cook for 2-4 more minutes, until pasta is tender. Add more liquid if needed.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese
- Remove from heat and let rest uncovered for 5 minutes.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack, Colby, or mozzarella for a different twist.
- Pasta Options: Works well with rotini, penne, or fusilli.
- Make It Creamier: Add ½ cup sour cream before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg