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Busy weeknights just got easier with this one-pan meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, and super comforting, just like the classic box but you’ll know exactly what goes in. Fewer weird extras, more flavor you’ll actually crave.
The first time I made my own, I was low on groceries but it turned out everyone liked it way better than the box. Now my teens go back for thirds.
Dreamy Ingredients
- Cheddar cheese: helps create that creamy, melty finish — sharp cheddar gives you maximum cheesy flavor
- Dried onion: totally optional, but it sneaks in a little sweet-savory hit if you’ve got it
- Garlic powder: boosts that classic American taste, just grab a brand with only garlic so it’s extra pure
- Salt and pepper: finishes everything off right, and fresh cracked pepper is always best
- Chili powder: gently warms things up and brings a bit of depth; fresh jars are a plus
- Pasta shells: hug that sauce, but any short noodle in your cabinet will hold up fine
- Beef broth: makes all the flavors pop and keeps things moist — low-sodium broth is best so you can fix salt levels as you like
- Tomato paste: gives loads of flavor; pick one that’s just tomatoes for best results
- Ground beef: sets up the hearty base, brings protein — pick something at least 85 percent lean for less grease
Step-by-Step Directions
- Mix in Cheese:
- Turn off the burner and dump the cheddar right in. Stir until you don’t spot any more unmelted cheese and the whole thing turns creamy. Giving it a few minutes to sit makes the flavors come together.
- Check to Soften Pasta:
- Once the pasta’s in, stir often. Let it bubble without a lid for about 8 minutes, adding a splash more broth if it’s looking dry. Take a bite now and then to see if you like the texture.
- Pour in Broth:
- Ease your beef broth into the pan, bringing up the heat until you see a gentle boil. Scrape up all the tasty brown bits at the bottom while you stir.
- Stir in Tomato Paste:
- Lower the heat and add your tomato paste. Keep mixing until the beef is covered and the color turns just a bit richer for a sweeter bite.
- Spoon Out Extra Grease:
- If you see a lot of fat, carefully pour most of it off or use a spoon to lift it out. Leaving a bit behind helps keep things deliciously rich.
- Brown Your Beef:
- Add your ground meat to a big skillet, then throw in all the seasonings (and onion if you want). Cook on medium-high, breaking up meat with your spatula, until you don’t see any pink. You’ll get a super flavor-packed base and not much liquid left.
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The star for me is always how the cheddar pulls everything together. I love how the cheese melts in at the end. Makes me think of chilly nights when everyone grabs seconds right off the stove — cheesy noodles have a way of making the whole family happy.
Smart Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in a container with a tight lid and pop in the fridge, good to eat for three days. When you go to warm it up, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it; the flavors just keep getting better overnight.
Swaps to Try
If you want it lighter, ground chicken or turkey works great. Melt in mozzarella if you're after a gooier bite, or Pepper Jack for some heat. Got gluten-free or whole wheat pasta? Toss that in but keep an eye on the cooking, since time can change.
Ways to Serve
This dish fills you up by itself, but a crisp green salad matches it nicely. Add some roasted veggies or a handful of peas for color, or finish with a scatter of chopped parsley to freshen things up.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What other cheese could I use if I'm out of cheddar?
Go with mozzarella for something creamy, or try Pepper Jack if you're craving more kick. A cheesy combo is always tasty too.
- → Any other pastas that work here?
Use whatever's in your pantry—shells and elbow noodles work especially well, but any bite-sized pasta fits right in.
- → How can I turn up the heat?
Bump up the chili powder, shake in some cayenne, or melt in a spicy cheese. Go as bold as you want!
- → Will this stay good if I prep it ahead?
Yep! Save in a tight container in the fridge. Just reheat slowly on the stove or zap it in the microwave when you're hungry.
- → Is there a good swap for the beef?
Ground turkey or chicken is awesome. Or, keep it plant-based by cooking with crumbled veggie protein or lentils.
- → Got any veggie add-ins that would taste great?
Toss in mushrooms, bell pepper pieces, or chopped zucchini for extra flavor and a little health boost while the beef is browning.