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#### Step 1: Cook the Protein
Start by cooking your protein of choice. If you’re using chicken breasts, season them with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). For ground beef, brown it in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s cooked through. Once the protein is cooked, set it aside while you prepare the pasta.
#### Step 2: Boil the Pasta
While your protein is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (typically 8-10 minutes). Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
If you’re using ground beef, simply mix it with the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
#### Step 4: Add the Pasta and Cheese
Next, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the protein and sauce. Stir to coat the pasta in the flavorful sauce. Once the pasta is mixed in, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and cover the skillet with a lid for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and create a gooey, cheesy layer.
### Tips for Perfecting Your 4-Ingredient Dinner
2. **Add Extra Veggies**: Want to make the dish more nutritious? Add some veggies to the mix! You can stir in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce before adding the cheese, or serve the dish with a side of roasted vegetables.
4. **Make It Ahead**: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the protein and pasta ahead of time, and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just heat everything up with the sauce and cheese.
5. **Serve with Sides**: For a well-rounded meal, serve your 4-ingredient dinner with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even a loaf of garlic bread. These simple sides will complement the dish and round out your dinner.
The **4-Ingredient Dinner** is the ultimate solution for busy nights when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect option for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen without compromising on taste. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but it also offers plenty of room for customization depending on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.
With minimal effort, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal that your whole family will love—and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a casual dinner, this 4-ingredient dinner is sure to be a hit!
This **4-Ingredient Dinner** is proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a flavorful, filling meal. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to simplify their weeknight dinners without sacrificing taste. With just four key ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s satisfying, customizable, and delicious—perfect for busy evenings, meal prep, or when you just want something easy and comforting.
