There’s nothing quite as comforting or crowd-pleasing as a big, bubbling Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. This weeknight favorite comes together in just one pan, delivering forkfuls of tender pasta, savory beef, and gooey cheese in every bite. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or just craving something cozy, this dish packs all the flavors of a classic pasta bake, but without the fuss of turning on the oven. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—what’s not to love?
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of staple ingredients can create a Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet that feels like a hug in a bowl. Every component in this recipe has a job, from infusing rich flavor to delivering that irresistible cheesy pull.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Opt for leaner beef for less grease, or use regular for maximum flavor.
- Pasta (2 cups, uncooked): Short shapes like penne or rotini hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and depth right from the start.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic offers a punch of aroma; jarred works in a pinch.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, with juices): They bring juiciness and a tangy kick.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz): This helps everything meld into a luscious, rich sauce.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Intensifies the savory, meaty flavor and cooks the pasta right in the pan.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs to give that classic, cozy flavor profile.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Offers gentle warmth and a pop of color.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential to bring all the flavors together.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds mild heat and balance.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts into a sharp, creamy base for ultimate comfort.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): For beautiful stretchiness and buttery goodness.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green for freshness and flair.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by grabbing your favorite heavy skillet and heading to the stove. Over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking the meat up as it cooks. In about 6–8 minutes, you’ll have beautifully browned beef and wonderfully soft onions—this foundation builds flavor for the whole Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat for a lighter final dish.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once the meat and onions are ready, toss in the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—you don’t want it to burn. This quick step elevates the sauce with that signature garlicky aroma everyone loves.
Step 3: Build the Sauce and Pasta Base
Now it’s time for the magic. Stir in your uncooked pasta, canned diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all up so the pasta is mostly submerged and soaking in every bit of savory goodness. Bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook Pasta
As soon as it boils, turn the heat down low and cover the skillet. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened and reduced. If the pasta soaks up liquid too quickly, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to keep things saucy.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Stir in half the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and blended, transforming the skillet into irresistible, creamy goodness. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the top, cover again, and let them melt for 2–3 minutes. This gives you that gooey, stretchy cheese topping that makes every Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet absolutely swoon-worthy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For the finishing touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like a pop of green. Dig in while it’s hot, and watch everyone around the table light up!
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. If you have extra cheese on hand, a little dusting right before serving never hurts. Red pepper flakes could also add a gentle kick for those who like things a bit spicy.
Side Dishes
Balance the richness of the pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or serve alongside simple steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. Garlic bread or warm baguette slices are never a bad idea to gather up all that luscious, cheesy sauce left at the bottom of the pan!
Creative Ways to Present
Host a family-style dinner by bringing the skillet straight to the table—bonus points for the big “wow!” factor. For fun, scoop the pasta into individual mini cast iron pans or ramekins and broil with extra cheese on top until bubbly. This makes your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet not just delicious, but show-stopping!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet keeps well for up to 4 days, and somehow the flavors become even richer after a little rest.
Freezing
To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Lay flat for easy storage. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight. This makes grabbing a comforting dinner on a busy night so simple!
Reheating
Reheat single portions in the microwave with a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce and bring it back to life. For larger amounts, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring until everything is hot and melty again. Top with a little fresh cheese or herbs for that just-cooked sparkle.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork work just as well in a Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Each brings its own flavor twist, so feel free to experiment with what you have.
Which pasta shapes work best?
Short shapes like penne, rotini, shells, or fusilli are perfect—they’re sturdy and really grab onto the sauce. Feel free to use what’s in your pantry, but avoid long noodles like spaghetti for best results.
How can I add more veggies?
Try stirring in chopped spinach, zucchini, or diced bell peppers with the tomatoes and sauce. These vegetables cook right along with everything else and add lovely color and nutrition to the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet.
Is this recipe spicy?
As written, it’s super kid-friendly with just a touch of warmth from paprika. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap in spicy Italian sausage for heat lovers.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet can be made earlier in the day or even the night before; just keep it covered in the fridge. Add a splash of broth when reheating to refresh the texture.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is pure, cheesy happiness in a pan. Try it once, and it’ll find a regular spot at your table—sharing great food with the people you love doesn’t get much simpler (or more delicious) than this!
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a comforting and easy one-pot meal that the whole family will love. Tender pasta cooked in a flavorful tomato and beef sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese – it’s a delicious dinner option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
1 lb
Uncooked Pasta:
2 cups (such as penne or rotini)
Onion:
1 small (diced)
Garlic:
2 cloves (minced)
Diced Tomatoes:
1 can (14.5 oz, with juices)
Tomato Sauce:
1 can (8 oz)
Beef Broth:
2 cups
Italian Seasoning:
1 teaspoon
Paprika:
1/2 teaspoon
Salt:
1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Cheddar Cheese:
1 1/2 cups (shredded)
Mozzarella Cheese:
1/2 cup (shredded)
Parsley:
chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned and onion is soft, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Garlic and Pasta: Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use any short pasta you have on hand.
- Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
