If you are craving a one-pan wonder that brings together hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a gooey blanket of melted cheese, then this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. With its rich tomato base and the perfect mix of spices, every bite feels like a comforting hug that’s both flavorful and filling. It’s a meal that’s simple enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough to impress anyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe comes from straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role. From the savory browned beef to the bubbling cheeses and vibrant herbs, these essentials come together to create a dish packed with flavor, texture, and beautiful color.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that adds richness and protein to the skillet.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and a bit of crunch when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of aromatic flavor that enhances the savory notes.
- 1 tsp salt: Helps to season all components perfectly and bring out their flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A lovely blend of herbs that ties the entire dish together.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of spice, adjustable to your liking.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and freshness in every bite.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates the saucy, luscious body of the dish.
- 1 ½ cups beef broth: Provides depth and ensures the pasta cooks beautifully in the skillet.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow): The hearty carbs that soak up all those rich flavors.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: For that irresistibly creamy, sharp finish.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a stretchy, smooth topping.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness at the end.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. This step builds the rich, meaty foundation of the dish and unlocks those deep, savory flavors.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Drain any excess grease to avoid greasiness, then add the diced onion and minced garlic right into the skillet. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant, infusing the dish with a wonderful aroma and a subtle sweetness.
Step 3: Season the Mix
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything to combine so the spices can evenly coat the beef and aromatics. This seasoning blend gives the dish its inviting warmth and complexity.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Sauce, and Broth
Pour the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth into the skillet. Give it a good stir so all the ingredients meld into a rich, flavorful sauce that will soak into the pasta.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Cook
Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked through, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheeses melt for 2 to 3 minutes, creating that ultimate gooey layer everyone loves.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top, and serve this cheesy goodness warm. The parsley adds a vibrant freshness that balances the richness perfectly.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A little sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is all you need to brighten up this dish with color and a hint of herbal freshness. For extra flavor, you can also add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese or a few red pepper flakes on top.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty skillet with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are also fantastic companions, perfect for scooping up every bit of that cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe that feels like home. Alternatively, portion it onto colorful plates and sprinkle extra cheese and fresh herbs on top for a more polished presentation that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you want a comforting meal with little effort, just thaw and reheat.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the pasta looks dry, to restore that creamy, saucy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella provide great meltiness and flavor, you can swap in Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a bit of Parmesan to suit your taste and what’s on hand.
Is it okay to use a different pasta shape?
Yes, the recipe is flexible. Penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well because they trap the sauce nicely, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, skip the ground beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You might also use a meat substitute or lentils to keep it hearty and filling.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can easily adjust the amount or leave them out altogether if you prefer a milder taste. The dish is very customizable to your spice preference.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?
Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid while cooking and stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the skillet. Using enough beef broth also helps keep it moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is truly a winner for busy nights or anytime you want a comforting, all-in-one meal. It’s quick to pull together, packed with flavor, and hits all those satisfying cravings for cheesy, meaty goodness. Give it a try and I promise it will become a staple in your dinner rotation.
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting one-pan meal, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich blend of cheeses in a flavorful tomato sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat to warm up.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Drain Excess Grease: If there is any excess grease in the skillet, carefully drain it to prevent sogginess.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked beef and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to evenly incorporate the seasonings.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together thoroughly.
- Add Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, pushing it down to be fully submerged under the liquid.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
- Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.
- Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar and ½ cup mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta.
- Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet again and let it sit off the heat for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt fully.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh finish, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Try using different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle for variety.
- Covering the skillet tightly while melting cheese ensures it melts evenly and becomes perfectly gooey.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
