Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

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Introduction

There’s just something so comforting about a cheesy, saucy pasta dish, and when you add ground beef into the mix, it’s like everything comes together in perfect harmony. This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the kind of meal that will make your whole family gather around the table, eagerly waiting for their first bite. It’s a cozy, satisfying dish that you can whip up in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal.

The best part? It’s so simple to make! No complicated steps or obscure ingredients here—just everyday pantry staples and a little love. And while it may sound like a dish that takes hours to prepare, this cheesy pasta comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner, and believe me, once you try it, it’s going to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• Quick and easy: You won’t believe how fast this comes together. With just one skillet, you can have a hearty dinner ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Family-friendly: The cheesy, meaty pasta is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s comfort food that everyone can enjoy.
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner, and the flavor of the dish doesn’t suffer one bit.
• Endless flavor: The blend of savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering combination that hits all the right spots.

A Personal Note on This Recipe

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this cheesy ground beef pasta skillet for my family. It’s been one of those recipes that I just know will always be a winner. I first stumbled upon it when I was looking for a quick dinner idea to serve after a busy day. I wanted something that would feel hearty but wouldn’t take hours to make, and this recipe was the perfect solution. The first time I made it, my kids practically licked their plates clean, and my husband went back for seconds (which, as you know, is a sure sign of a recipe that’s here to stay).

Over the years, I’ve made this dish countless times—sometimes with a twist, sometimes just sticking to the basics. Either way, it always brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. I hope it does the same for you!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this dish so delicious. These are all simple, everyday items that you likely already have in your kitchen.

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
• 2 cups pasta (I love using rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni, but you can use whatever you have on hand)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth, if you prefer)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for extra richness)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creamy texture)
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Why These Ingredients Matter:

• Ground Beef: This is the main protein for the dish, and it adds a rich, savory flavor. You can swap it out with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner alternative.
• Tomatoes: The crushed tomatoes and tomato paste give this dish a deep, hearty tomato base that complements the beef perfectly.
• Pasta: Choose a pasta shape that will soak up all that delicious sauce—something with lots of nooks and crannies!
• Cheese: Mozzarella gives that stretchy, melty cheese pull, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty contrast.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a luxurious creaminess to the dish, making it extra comforting.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this cheesy ground beef pasta skillet. It’s super simple and goes by quickly!

1. Cook the Pasta

• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Tip: Save a little bit of pasta water for later; it can help thicken the sauce if needed.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

• While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
• Tip: If you’re using lean beef, you might need a little extra olive oil or butter to keep it from drying out.

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

• Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then, add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
• Tip: Don’t let the garlic burn! Stir constantly after adding it to the pan.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Broth

• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Tip: Add a splash of pasta water here if the sauce is too thick for your liking.

5. Season the Sauce

• Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Tip: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice little kick if your family likes things spicy.

6. Combine with the Pasta

• Once the sauce has thickened and is bursting with flavor, add the cooked pasta into the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
• Tip: Don’t worry if it seems a little dry. The pasta will soak up some of the sauce as it simmers.

7. Add the Cream and Cheese

• Stir in the heavy cream, then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan over the pasta. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is beautifully creamy.
• Tip: For an extra cheesy dish, feel free to add a little more mozzarella or even some shredded cheddar!

8. Final Touches

• Add a small pat of butter to make the dish even richer, if desired. Stir it in until fully melted.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if you like, for a pop of color and freshness.
• Tip: This dish is best served hot and fresh from the skillet, but leftovers keep well too!

How to Serve Your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This cheesy ground beef pasta skillet is the perfect main dish all on its own, but there are plenty of great ways to round out the meal.

• Serve with garlic bread: The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
• Pair with a simple side salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta and balances the meal.
• Toppings: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil makes this dish feel extra special.

Additional Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember, it’s going to cook a little more in the sauce, so make sure your pasta is al dente when you drain it.
• Beef options: If you prefer leaner meat, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but I love the rich flavor that comes from beef.
• Keep it creamy: For an even creamier texture, feel free to stir in an extra splash of heavy cream or a little more butter when serving.

Recipe Variations

You can easily customize this dish based on what you have on hand or to suit your dietary preferences.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your tomato paste and broth are gluten-free.
• Extra Veggies: Add in some bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the veggie content without compromising on flavor.

Freezing and Storage

This recipe is great for leftovers, and you can easily store and even freeze the skillet for later.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.

Special Equipment

• Skillet: A large, heavy-bottomed skillet works best for this recipe, allowing for even cooking and easy stirring.
• Pot for pasta: A large pot for boiling pasta is essential, especially when cooking multiple servings.
• Grater for cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella always melt better and have a better texture than pre-grated.

FAQ

• Can I use store-bought pasta sauce instead of tomatoes? Yes, you can use store-bought pasta sauce if you’re in a pinch. Just skip the tomato paste and beef broth, and adjust the seasoning.
• Can I make this ahead? Yes, you can prepare the ground beef mixture and sauce in advance. When you’re ready to eat, just cook the pasta and combine everything.
• Can I make this without cream? If you want a lighter option, you can skip the cream and use a little extra broth or even milk.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is comfort food at its finest—quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a weekend family dinner, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your photos or leave a comment below!

Happy cooking, and enjoy that cheesy goodness!