Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

If you're looking for a simple, comforting, and satisfying dinner that comes together in just one pan, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the perfect choice! With savory ground beef, tender pasta, and plenty of gooey melted cheese, this dish is an instant crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal but don't have much time. Follow this easy recipe for a one-skillet dinner that’s rich, cheesy, and full of flavor!

What Is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese in a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a cross between a beefy pasta bake and a quick skillet meal, offering all the deliciousness of comfort food with minimal effort and cleanup. The ground beef is cooked with onions and garlic, then combined with pasta, broth, tomato sauce, and melted cheese for an all-in-one dish that's full of flavor and texture. It’s a fantastic family meal that’s kid-friendly and budget-conscious.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Here are the basic ingredients you'll need to make this tasty skillet dinner:

For the Main Dish:

1. Ground beef (1 pound) – Provides the hearty base of the dish.
2. Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds a sweet, savory flavor.
3. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – For extra depth of flavor.
4. Pasta (2 cups, uncooked – such as rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni) – Choose your favorite small pasta.
5. Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz) – Forms the base of the sauce.
6. Beef or chicken broth (2 cups) – Helps cook the pasta and adds extra flavor.
7. Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) – Adds a fresh, slightly chunky texture to the sauce.
8. Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp) – Enhances the savory flavors of the beef and sauce.
9. Italian seasoning (1 tsp) – A blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil to add depth.
10. Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional) – For a little heat.
11. Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings.
12. Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups) – The cheesy topping that melts perfectly.
13. Shredded mozzarella cheese (½ cup) – For added gooeyness.

Optional Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Feel free to customize your dish by adding extra veggies or toppings. Here are some optional ingredients you can include:

1. Bell peppers (1 diced, any color) – Adds sweetness and crunch.
2. Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – For a savory, earthy flavor.
3. Spinach (2 cups, fresh) – A healthy, leafy green that wilts into the pasta.
4. Hot sauce (to taste) – For an extra kick.
5. Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) – For garnish and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is super versatile. Here are some substitutions and variations based on your dietary needs or preferences:

• Turkey or chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Whole wheat pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based ground meat and dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
• Mexican-inspired twist: Add taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning, and use Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the process of making this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet step-by-step.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, and cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 2: Drain Excess Fat

If your ground beef has a lot of fat, drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This will prevent the dish from becoming too greasy and will help the flavors of the sauce shine through.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta directly to the skillet. Stir to make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pasta cook over medium-low heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet again for a few minutes to let the cheese melt, or pop it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes if you want the cheese to get golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is fully melted, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy your cheesy, comforting skillet meal!

How to Cook Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a recap of the key steps to make this easy one-pan dish:

1. Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic in a large skillet.
2. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add the sauce ingredients (tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, seasonings).
4. Cook the pasta directly in the sauce for about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add cheese and let it melt before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few tips to ensure your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet turns out perfectly:

• Undercooking the pasta: Make sure to simmer the pasta long enough for it to become tender, but avoid overcooking so it doesn’t become mushy.
• Not enough liquid: If the pasta isn’t fully submerged in the sauce while cooking, it might not cook evenly. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Skipping the cheese melt: Don’t skip the step of melting the cheese on top—it makes the dish extra creamy and delicious!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is ready, it’s time to serve! Here are some tips to make your meal even more appealing.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• With garlic bread: Serve alongside warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up all the extra sauce.
• With a side salad: Balance the richness of the dish with a simple green salad, dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon.
• Family-style: This is a great dish to serve family-style. Just bring the skillet to the table and let everyone scoop out their portions.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a bright pop of color and freshness to the rich dish.
• Serve in a cast iron skillet: If you’ve cooked the dish in a cast iron skillet, serve it directly from the pan for a rustic, homey presentation.
• Add a topping of crispy breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, toast breadcrumbs in a little butter and sprinkle them over the melted cheese before serving.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can make the dish up to the point of adding cheese, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the oven, add cheese, and melt before serving.
• Use different cheeses: Feel free to experiment with the cheeses—try using sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda for different flavors.
• Add veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time! You can either assemble the dish fully and store it in the fridge for up to a day or cook the pasta, beef, and sauce, then refrigerate it and add the cheese before reheating.

Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work best. They cook evenly in the sauce and hold onto the cheese well.

Can I make this with a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage

would work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Make sure to cook the pasta until just al dente (slightly firm to the bite). It will continue to absorb the sauce as it sits, so avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick, easy, and comforting dinner that comes together in one pan. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this meal is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Try it out, and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

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