Preparing a budget-friendly, delicious meal for the entire family doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With our $15 family dinner recipe, you can whip up a one-pot cheesy pasta that everyone will love. This dish is not only easy to make but also quick, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. The best part? You can get everything for just around $15!

• 1 pound of pasta (any type you prefer)
• 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, and once it’s hot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re fragrant and translucent. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Liquids and Pasta

Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes. Stir to combine. Once the mixture is well combined, add the pasta to the pot. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.

Cooking the Pasta

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add Cheese

When the pasta is cooked to your desired tenderness, sprinkle in the shredded cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat. If you like, garnish the cheesy pasta with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients like garlic, onion, and herbs will enhance the flavor of your dish. While canned tomatoes are convenient and budget-friendly, fresh diced tomatoes can also be used if you prefer.

Customize Your Pasta

Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked chicken, bacon bits, or vegetables such as bell peppers and spinach. This can make the dish more wholesome and nutritious.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can prepare a delightful one-pot cheesy pasta that won’t break the bank. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and ensures that your family enjoys a tasty, satisfying meal together. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a household favorite!

Do you have any variations of this recipe? Share them in the comments below!