If you’re looking for a comforting dinner that comes together in a flash and packs a punch of flavor, you’re going to adore this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet – A Quick and Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe. This dish brings tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and oodles of melty cheese all together in one pan. It’s a weekend favorite or a busy weeknight saver, offering cozy, cheesy goodness without the fuss or piles of dishes. Let me walk you through why this recipe is sure to become your go-to whenever hunger strikes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role. From the savory ground beef to the zesty Italian seasoning, every element adds layers of taste, color, and texture that make the dish so irresistible.
- 1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef offers that hearty, meaty base that’s flavorful without being greasy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding a hint of richness to bring out the meat’s best flavors.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch to balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its signature warm, aromatic flavor that every pasta deserves.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Provides freshness and a touch of acidity that brightens up the whole skillet.
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid that cooks the pasta and ties everything together with depth.
- 8 oz uncooked pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni soak up the sauce perfectly for a satisfying bite every time.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish a subtle Mediterranean flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and making all the flavors pop.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spice to balance the creamy cheese and savory beef.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Or mozzarella or Monterey Jack for that gooey cheesy finish you crave.
- Chopped parsley or basil: Fresh herbs to brighten the dish visually and add a burst of freshness.
- Extra shredded cheese for topping: Because you can never have too much cheese!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet – A Quick and Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to break it up as it cooks for an even, crumbly texture. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from feeling too greasy. Next, toss in the chopped onions and cook until they soften and become translucent, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. Adding garlic at the end and cooking for just 30 seconds wakes up the flavors and fills your kitchen with that mouthwatering aroma.
Step 2: Build the Sauce with Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes along with the beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This combination creates a luscious sauce that’s packed with flavor. Bring everything just to a simmer so the flavors start to meld together, getting ready to cook the pasta right in the sauce. This step is all about layering depth and richness that makes your skillet sing.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Cook Until Tender
Now it’s time to add your uncooked pasta directly into the skillet. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the flavorful broth. Cover the skillet and let it cook on medium-low heat for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the liquid—if it begins to evaporate too fast before the pasta is tender, add a splash more broth or water. This simple technique allows the pasta to absorb all those incredible savory flavors as it cooks.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked and the sauce has thickened, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes so the cheese melts into a creamy, dreamy layer that ties every bite together. Give the dish a good stir to combine the melted cheese throughout, transforming it into that ultimate cheesy, satisfying meal.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
The final flourish is simple but impactful: scatter chopped parsley or fresh basil over the skillet. This touch of green adds brightness and a pop of freshness, balancing out the rich, cheesy goodness. Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of extra shredded cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve warm straight from the pan for a cozy and easy dinner experience.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet – A Quick and Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil not only boost the visual appeal but also add a refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the dish. A quick crack of fresh black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can also add a nice little kick if you love a bit of spice.
Side Dishes
This skillet is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread makes it feel even more like a full, restaurant-style meal. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli tossed with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon offer a bright contrast to all that cheesy, meaty goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skillet in individual cast iron pans for a rustic, homey vibe. You can also scoop the mixture into bell pepper halves and bake them briefly for a colorful presentation that’s both satisfying and visually stunning. Leftover skillet mix also works beautifully stuffed inside warm tortillas for a quick pasta taco night!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep delicious and safe to eat for up to 3 days. This makes for an excellent next-day lunch or easy dinner option without having to redo the cooking process.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in bulk, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing the container. Keep in mind that the texture might soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavors remain beautifully intact.
Reheating
For reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of broth or water and gently heat over low, stirring occasionally until bubbly. Add extra cheese to revive that gooey, cheesy charm that makes this skillet so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works perfectly in this recipe. The flavor will be a bit milder, so consider adding a pinch more seasoning to boost the taste.
What type of pasta works best for this skillet?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni hold up well in this skillet because they absorb the sauce and cook evenly. Avoid very thin or delicate pastas that might turn mushy.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for that meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the flavors balanced.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes when you add garlic or finish with a drizzle of hot sauce. You can also mix in some chopped jalapenos with the onions for a fresh spicy kick.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and then reheat?
You sure can, and it reheats beautifully! Just store it in the fridge and warm it up gently when you’re ready. The pasta will soak up flavors even more after resting overnight.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet – A Quick and Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring comfort and joy with every bite. Its simple ingredients and straightforward method make it accessible for even the busiest cooks, while the cheesy, savory flavors feel like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your kitchen repertoire!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet – A Quick and Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory ground beef, tender pasta, a rich tomato broth, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s an ideal comfort food that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (lean beef or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Dry Goods and Seasonings
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Dairy and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, Monterey Jack)
- Extra shredded cheese for topping
- Chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to make sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the liquid evaporates too quickly before the pasta is tender, add a little more broth or water as needed.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit off the heat for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt fully. Then stir everything together to combine.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the cheesy ground beef pasta warm, garnished with chopped parsley or basil and extra shredded cheese on top for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
- Feel free to substitute pasta shapes depending on your preference; small shapes like elbow macaroni work best for even cooking.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of milk or cream along with the cheese.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
