Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, quick, and flavorful meal that the entire family will love, then this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe is perfect for you. It's a delicious one-pan meal that combines ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This meal is ideal for busy weeknights when you want to put dinner on the table without too much fuss. Follow this recipe for a comforting, filling dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Read on for the complete recipe, tips, and variations to make it your own!

What is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a one-pan meal that brings together simple pantry staples to create a hearty and satisfying dinner. With ground beef as the star protein, the dish is flavored with a mix of onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato sauce. The pasta cooks right in the skillet with the sauce, absorbing all those rich flavors. To top it off, a generous amount of shredded cheese is melted into the mix, making it irresistibly cheesy and comforting. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to swap ingredients to suit your tastes.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• 1 lb ground beef – The heart of the dish, ground beef adds richness and protein. You can choose lean beef for a lighter version or go for a higher fat content for more flavor.
• 8 oz pasta – Short pasta like penne, rotini, or macaroni works best for this recipe. The pasta cooks in the sauce, making it extra flavorful.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a sweet, savory depth to the dish.
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings an aromatic, slightly spicy flavor that complements the beef.
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes – The base of the sauce, adding both flavor and moisture.
• 1 cup beef broth – Helps the pasta cook in the skillet while infusing the dish with beefy goodness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to bring in classic Italian flavors.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a bit of heat for those who like a spicy kick.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 2 cups shredded cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorite cheeses for that gooey, melty finish.
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to the finished dish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is how versatile it is. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground turkey or chicken – If you want a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You’ll still get plenty of flavor, but with less fat.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta – For a healthier or gluten-free version, use whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free variety like brown rice pasta.
• Vegetables – Add more nutrition to your dish by incorporating veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Simply sauté them with the onions for a balanced meal.
• Spice it up – Increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Cheese options – Try using Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for different flavor profiles. You can also mix multiple cheeses for an extra cheesy experience.
• Tomato sauce alternatives – If you’re out of crushed tomatoes, you can use marinara sauce or tomato puree. Both will give you a rich and tasty sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onions and Garlic

Using the same skillet (without cleaning it), add the diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. These will add flavor to the sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using), and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta directly to the skillet. Stir everything together to make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the pasta cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the pasta is al dente and has absorbed much of the sauce, return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the pasta and beef mixture. Cover the skillet and allow the cheese to melt for about 3-5 minutes. Once the cheese is gooey and melted, remove from heat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish your cheesy ground beef pasta skillet with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.

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

1. Brown the ground beef – Cook until no longer pink, then set aside.
2. Sauté onions and garlic – Sauté to release their flavors, then mix into the sauce.
3. Simmer the sauce and cook the pasta – Combine the pasta, tomatoes, and broth to allow the pasta to cook in the sauce.
4. Add the cheese – Let the cheese melt over the dish for that signature gooey goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not browning the beef properly: Make sure to brown the beef well for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Pasta can become mushy if overcooked. Be sure to check for doneness to keep it al dente.
• Not stirring the pasta: Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent it from sticking to the pan or clumping together.
• Skipping the cheese melting step: Melting the cheese on top takes the dish from good to great. Don’t skip this essential step!

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving, there are several ways to elevate the look and feel of your cheesy ground beef pasta skillet. Here are some tips:

• Family-Style Serving: Place the skillet in the center of the table for a relaxed, family-style meal. Make sure to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Individual Portions: Spoon the pasta into individual bowls and top each with a little extra cheese and herbs for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• Straight from the skillet: This dish is perfect for serving right out of the skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• With a side salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the cheesy pasta.
• With garlic bread: For a carb-lover's dream, serve alongside buttery garlic bread or breadsticks.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• Rustic skillet presentation: Keep it in the skillet and serve family-style.
• Fresh herb garnish: Top with chopped parsley or basil for added color.
• Cheese topping: Add an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese just before serving for a melty, gooey presentation.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

• Season to taste: Don’t forget to taste the sauce before adding the pasta. Adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or extra herbs.
• Use fresh cheese: Shredding your own cheese from a block will result in better melting than pre-shredded varieties, which often have added anti-caking agents.
• Make it ahead: This dish reheats well, so you can prepare it in advance and warm it up when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when needed. Just keep it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely. Store the cooked pasta in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or on the stovetop.

Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
A: Cheddar and mozzarella are great options, but feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini is a great way to boost the nutritional content of this meal.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe is the perfect solution for busy nights when you need a comforting, satisfying meal. It’s simple, quick, and made in just one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash. With its rich, cheesy flavor and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Be sure to try it tonight and share it with your loved ones!

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