Quick and Easy Homemade Pasta Skillet

This here is my busy-time-of-year-all-in-one-skillet-last-minute-little-prep-kid-pleaser-gift-to-you dinner.  I've been making it about once a week.  In fact, it's what I'm making tonight! I look ahead and decide which evening needs the quickest and easiest prep.  Often it's an evening Jamey works and I don't want to field all the dinner complaints by myself.  This meal elicits no complaints. It comes together fast and reminds me of a homemade, healthier version of hamburger helper (especially when you use your own tomato sauce, onion and local meats and cheeses).  Pair it with some green beans, peas, or green salad and some applesauce and you're all set to go.

Homemade Pasta Skillet

serves 6

1 pound ground beef, turkey, venison or sausage
1 large onion, chopped small
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound (1 regular box) pasta (small shells or elbows), UNcooked
3 cups tomato sauce
2 1/2 cups water
2 tsp. salt
ground black pepper
2-3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

In a large (12-inch) skillet with lid, saute the ground meat and onions until the meat is just cooked through and the onions are tender.  Add garlic and saute another minute or two.  Add the uncooked pasta, tomato sauce, water, salt and pepper.  Stir everything together gently.  Cover tightly with the lid and bring to a boil.  Once boiling, turn down to medium-high heat to maintain a hard simmer.  Let cook, covered, for 15 minutes, occasionally shaking the pan a bit to mix the contents.  Test a piece of pasta for doneness, adding a little more time (and a little water if needed) if not al dente.  Once pasta is done, remove the skillet from the heat and add the mozzarella cheese.  Stir to combine and let the cheese melt. Place the whole skillet on the table and serve.

You're very welcome.