Skillet Macaroni with Zesty Meat Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound 85 percent lean ground beef
• Salt and pepper
• 4 garlic clove s , minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cup swater
• 12 ounce selbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup drained jarred banana peppers (see note), chopped
• 1 1/2 cup sshredded Italian cheese blend
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions

1. Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Add beef, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper and cook until beef is no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Stir in tomatoes, water, macaroni, and banana peppers. Cover and cook, stirring often, until macaroni begins to soften, about 7 minutes. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer, covered, until macaroni is al dente, about 7 minutes.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup cheese and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, cover, and cook until cheese is melted, about 1 minute. Serve.