If you’re searching for a comforting, homestyle dinner that’s bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is a total game-changer. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, melty cheese blend. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but does so with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Get ready to dive into a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing skillet meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of ingredients that create layers of taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the savory beef and aromatic spices to the creamy cheese and tangy tomatoes. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty flavor and protein, acting as the base of this skillet meal.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of aroma and savory warmth to the dish.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully without overpowering.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Delivers a subtle kick and balances the seasoning.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses herbal notes that pair wonderfully with the tomato base.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little spice, these bring a gentle heat without overwhelming.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and moisture, brightening the skillet.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich sauce that coats the pasta and beef.
- 1 ½ cups beef broth: Boosts savory richness and helps cook the pasta right in the skillet.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow): The pasta choice brings fun shapes and satisfying bites.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a creamy, flavorful blanket that defines this recipe.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretchiness and mild creaminess to complement the cheddar.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Provides a fresh, vibrant finish just before serving.
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 turns a beautiful brown, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking. Browning the beef well builds a deep, savory flavor that really makes this skillet dish shine.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, drain any excess grease if needed, then toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook these together for around 2 to 3 minutes, until the onions soften up and everything smells wonderfully fragrant—this builds layers of taste and that home-cooked aroma we all crave.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re going for a little heat. Stir everything together so the spices coat the beef and veggies evenly, setting the stage for a rich and fully rounded flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Sauce, and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, the tomato sauce, and the beef broth. Stir well to combine these liquids with your seasoned ground beef, creating a luscious base for the pasta to cook in.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Drop in your uncooked pasta, making sure all pieces are submerged in the liquid. Bring the skillet to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 12 to 15 minutes while you stir occasionally. This method allows the pasta to cook perfectly by absorbing all the delicious flavors around it.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheeses
Once the pasta is tender, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts throughout the dish, adding that signature gooey texture. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top, cover again, and let the cheese melt for a few more minutes. This final cheesy layer is pure comfort in every bite.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness, and serve it warm. This dish is ready to be the centerpiece of your dinner table.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a fantastic way to brighten the appearance and add a mild herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese. You can also try a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy kick or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to turn up the spice.
Side Dishes
This hearty skillet meal pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are also excellent companions for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this recipe in individual ramekins and broil the top for a golden, bubbly crust. Alternatively, add some cooked veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients and color, turning this dish into a complete, balanced meal with plenty of personality.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to cool it completely before freezing. It can stay in your freezer for up to 2 months for a quick and comforting meal anytime you need it.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the skillet meal in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it until heated through. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore its creamy sauce consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this skillet recipe?
Absolutely! While penne, rotini, or elbow pasta work wonderfully, feel free to swap in any short pasta shape you have on hand. Just be mindful of cooking times, as thicker or larger pasta may take a little longer to soften.
Is it okay to substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef?
Yes, swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken makes this recipe a bit leaner and still flavorful. Just remember these proteins tend to cook faster and may need a bit more seasoning to boost their milder taste.
Can I add vegetables to the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe?
Definitely! This skillet dish is a fantastic base for adding veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Add them when sautéing the onions to ensure they soften nicely and blend in with the flavors.
How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?
The ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth that complements the savory flavors without overwhelming the dish. If you prefer milder food, you can easily leave them out, or increase the amount for more heat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
To keep it dairy-free, try using a vegan cheese alternative that melts well. For a vegan version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The core of this recipe is versatile and lends itself well to customization.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s downright addictive in the best way. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you up in cheesy, meaty comfort and brings everyone to the table with a smile. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding friends, giving this recipe a try will undoubtedly make it a new favorite in your weeknight lineup. So grab your skillet, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of this wonderful dish!
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal that combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich blend of melted cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features a flavorful tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and a hint of spice, all cooked together in a single skillet for easy preparation and cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Liquids and Tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat to warm up before cooking the ingredients.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Drain Grease: Remove any excess grease from the skillet to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant to build flavor.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine the sauce base.
- Add Pasta: Submerge the uncooked pasta fully in the liquid mixture, ensuring it is covered for even cooking.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese while the skillet is still on the heat, mixing until melted and creamy.
- Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the pasta surface.
- Allow Cheese to Melt: Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to reduce the salt content if desired.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream before adding the cheese.
- Any short pasta shape works well—try fusilli or shells for variation.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
