Save to Pinterest A hearty, budget-friendly one-pan meal that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a comforting casserole&mdashperfect for feeding a hungry family without breaking the bank.
This skillet is my families go-to when I want something quick& easy and satisfying all at once.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 cup (130 g) frozen or fresh
- Dill pickles: 1/2 cup (60 g), diced (optional but recommended)
- Uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta: 2 cups (220 g)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Yellow mustard: 1 tbsp
- Ketchup: 2 tbsp
- Beef or chicken broth: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tsp
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g)
- Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large, deep skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5&6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2:
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2&3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Mix in the tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the meat.
- Step 4:
- Add the diced tomatoes, pickles (if using), uncooked pasta, and broth. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is submerged.
- Step 5:
- Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 12&15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6:
- Lower the heat. Stir in milk and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the top. Cover and let sit for 2 minutes to melt.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra pickles, ketchup, or mustard if desired.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings everyone around the table to share laughs and stories while enjoying a delicious meal.
Notes
Top with chopped scallions or crispy fried onions for extra flavor and crunch. Serve with a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet with lid, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (pasta), dairy (cheese, milk), soy (Worcestershire sauce possibly ketchup or mustard). May contain egg (in some pasta brands). Always check labels for allergens if using packaged products.
Save to Pinterest This skillet is comfort food made easy&perfect for busy nights that call for a hearty meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta shapes hold well in the skillet and absorb flavors nicely. Gluten-free pasta can be substituted if needed.
- → Can I use other ground meats instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work well as lighter or vegetarian-friendly options while maintaining texture.
- → How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Adding smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and diced pickles enhances depth and tanginess, balancing the creamy cheddar and pasta.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
This one-pan meal is best served fresh to retain creaminess, but leftovers can be gently reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
- → What toppings complement this skillet dish?
Chopped scallions, crispy fried onions, extra pickles, ketchup, or mustard add additional texture and flavor accents.