Cheesy Macaroni And Beef Skillet

Cheesy Macaroni And Beef Skillet

from southernliving.com
Entree
30 min
4 servings

Upgrade that classic boxed dinner with this homemade macaroni and beef skillet that's fresher, better, and every bit as cozy and comforting.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb.85% lean ground round
  • 1 mediumonion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp.tomato paste
  • 3 cupsunsalted beef stock
  • 1 tsp.kosher salt
  • 1 tsp.italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp.garlic powder
  • ½ tsp.smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp.black pepper
  • 8 oz.uncooked uncooked elbow macaroni (about 1 2/3 cups)
  • 8 oz.sharp cheddar, shredded (2 cups), divided
  • 3 ½ cupsbagged frozen cut leaf spinach (10 oz.)

Directions

  1. 1

    Gather all ingredients.

  2. 2

    Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Crumble beef into pan and sprinkle onions into pan. Cook until beef is browned and cooked through, stirring frequently to crumble, 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in tomato paste; cook until tomato paste darkens, stirring constantly, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in beef stock, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic power, smoked paprika, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Stir in macaroni. Reduce heat to medium or level needed to maintain a low boil; cook, uncovered, until macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally, 12 to 14 minutes.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to low. Stir in half of cheese, then add frozen spinach. Cook until spinach thaws and wilts, stirring occasionally, about 2 minutes. Add remaining cheese, stirring until cheese melts.