If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together in one pan and bursts with flavors, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s the perfect blend of juicy ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a dreamy, melty cheese topping that makes every bite pure joy. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish is a simple yet satisfying way to bring everyone to the table with smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create a delicious balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors. Each item plays an essential role — from the fragrant garlic and onions adding aroma, to the Italian seasoning giving it a subtle herbaceous kick.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty, protein-packed base of the dish.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the skillet with that signature fragrant warmth.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds just enough spice to balance the richness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings herbal notes for an authentic Italian vibe.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat, if you like a bit of spice.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides acidity and texture.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a luscious, smooth tomato base.
- 1 ½ cups beef broth: Adds richness and helps cook the pasta perfectly.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow): The comforting carb that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to create that irresistible gooeyness.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a mild, stretchy complement to cheddar.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Gives a fresh pop of color and brightness.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and break it apart as it cooks to avoid any large clumps. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease — this keeps the dish from becoming too oily while keeping the beef flavorful and juicy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Let them cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until soft and fragrant. This builds a wonderful flavor base, making the whole dish feel even more comforting and homey.
Step 3: Season with Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and if you’re feeling bold, red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well, ensuring the herbs and spices coat the beef evenly to make each bite flavorful and layered.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Sauce, and Broth
Now pour in your diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine the liquids with your seasoned beef mixture. This creates the rich, savory sauce that will cook into the pasta.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid so it can cook evenly. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Your pasta will soak up all the delicious sauce and become perfectly tender.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheese
Once the pasta is tender, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy, luscious sauce. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 2 to 3 minutes. This final cheesy layer makes the dish look and taste irresistibly inviting.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and serve while it’s warm and gooey. This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe tastes amazing fresh from the pan and is sure to quickly become a family favorite.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley brings a burst of green and a mild herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese. For extra flair, you could also try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Side Dishes
This dish is a complete meal but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables adds freshness and balance. Garlic bread or crusty bread is also a perfect match, ready for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this skillet straight from the pan for a rustic touch, or portion it into individual bowls and garnish each with a bit of extra cheese and parsley. For parties, putting it in a baking dish, topping with extra cheese, and broiling for a minute creates a golden crust that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the skillet has cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, giving you easy meals on busy days without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe freezes nicely. Simply portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep texture and flavors intact.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, adding a splash of broth or water if the pasta seems dry, to revive that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, and elbow macaroni work great because they hold the sauce well, but you can really use any pasta you prefer or have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as shapes vary.
Is it possible to make this recipe without ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The cooking method stays the same, and you’ll still get plenty of flavor from the herbs and cheese.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Including the optional red pepper flakes adds a nice mild heat, and you can always increase the amount or add a dash of hot sauce to make it more fiery according to your taste.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Try swapping the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth keeps it vegetarian friendly while retaining rich flavor.
What kind of cheese should I use if I want a different flavor?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a kick, gouda for a smoky touch, or even a sharp provolone to change up the profile. Just make sure it melts well for that lovely gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is pure comfort in a pan, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The mix of savory beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese creates a meal that’s hard to resist, perfect for busy families or anyone craving a cozy dinner. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how quickly it becomes one of your go-to dishes. Happy cooking!
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is cooked with aromatic onions and garlic, then simmered with tomatoes, beef broth, and pasta until tender. Finished with a generous blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is creamy, comforting, and packed with savory Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 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 Canned Goods
- 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 (divided)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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 with a spatula as it cooks for even browning.
- Drain grease: If there’s excess grease from the beef, carefully drain it to avoid greasy pasta.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to incorporate the spices evenly.
- Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together until combined.
- Add pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, making sure it is fully submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Incorporate cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the pasta until it melts smoothly.
- Top with remaining cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar and ½ cup mozzarella cheese over the pasta surface. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese thoroughly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; omit for milder flavor.
- If beef broth is unavailable, substitute with chicken broth or water with a beef bouillon cube.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or half-and-half before adding cheese.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or on stovetop with a splash of broth.
