Are you ready for a dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to please everyone at the table? The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is your answer. This one-pan wonder combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese into a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Not only is it a breeze to cook, but it’s also versatile—whether you want to stick to the classic version or mix it up with some tasty variations, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making this delicious meal, from selecting the best ingredients to adding your personal touch. We’ll also provide helpful tips, nutritional info, and answers to common questions so that you can perfect this dish. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients
To create the perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. But don’t worry, you won’t need to hunt down anything fancy—most of these should already be in your kitchen!
Main Ingredients:
- Ground beef (1 pound) – This is the star of the show, providing that rich, meaty flavor.
- Pasta (8 ounces) – Short shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli work best.
- Shredded cheese (2 cups) – A mix of mozzarella and cheddar creates the ultimate melty topping.
- Canned diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces) – For a juicy, tangy kick.
- Beef broth (1 cup) – Helps bring everything together, making the dish nice and saucy.
- Onion (1 small, diced) – Adds a touch of sweetness when sautéed.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Because who doesn’t love garlic?
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – For sautéing and adding a little extra richness.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning round out the flavors.
Optional Add-ins:
- Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added for extra texture and nutrition.
- Spices – If you like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes or hot sauce will do the trick!
- Herbs – Fresh basil or parsley can be used to garnish for a pop of color and flavor.
With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a mouthwatering skillet meal that everyone will love!
Equipment Needed
To make your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. Luckily, you probably already have these!
Essential Tools:
- Large skillet (12-inch) – This is where all the magic happens. A wide skillet makes it easy to mix everything.
- Pot for boiling pasta – You’ll need a separate pot to cook the pasta.
- Colander – To drain the pasta after it’s cooked.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To measure the ingredients precisely.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and mixing all the ingredients together.
With these tools, you’ll be ready to create your delicious skillet meal without any hassle!
Preparation Steps
Making the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is simple and quick. Just follow these easy steps to create a tasty meal!
Cooking the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your pasta and cook it until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set it aside.
Preparing the Beef Mixture:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook it until soft and clear, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned, about 6-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Combining Ingredients:
- Add the canned diced tomatoes and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, so the flavors can come together.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Stir it in, making sure everything is coated.
- If the mixture looks too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired texture.
Adding Cheese:
- Stir in half of the shredded cheese until it melts and makes the dish creamy.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it melt.
Now, your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is almost ready to enjoy! The next step is to add any extras you like.
Tips and Variations
Here are some easy tips and ideas to make your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet even better. You can mix things up to suit your taste!
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Ground turkey or chicken: If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. It still tastes great!
- Gluten-free pasta: If you need a gluten-free meal, just swap in gluten-free pasta. It works perfectly in this recipe.
Adding Vegetables:
- You can throw in some diced vegetables. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. They’ll add flavor and nutrients.
Spice Level Adjustments:
- For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. It’s an easy way to make the dish spicier if you like that extra kick.
Cheese Variations:
- Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Try provolone, gouda, or even pepper jack for a different flavor twist. You can also add extra cheese on top for more gooey goodness!
These simple changes let you customize your skillet to fit your taste. The dish is so flexible, you can easily make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
Once your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is ready, it’s time to serve it up! Here are a few ideas to make your meal even better.
Accompaniments:
- Side salad: A simple green salad with your favorite dressing pairs perfectly with this dish. It adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the cheesy pasta.
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls: Serve with some garlic bread or a soft roll to mop up all the sauce. It’s the perfect sidekick!
Garnishing:
- For a touch of freshness, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. It adds color and extra flavor.
- You can also grate a little extra cheese over the top. It will melt into the dish, making it even more delicious!
These small touches will take your skillet meal from good to great, making it even more satisfying!
Nutritional Information
Wondering about the nutritional value of your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet? Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting in each serving.
Estimated Values per Serving:
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
These values are approximate and can change based on the exact ingredients you use. But overall, it’s a balanced meal with plenty of protein, carbs, and a good dose of flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Let’s clear up any doubts!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dish up to the point of adding the cheese. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it and then add the cheese. It will taste just as good!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove. If it’s a little dry, add some beef broth or water.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta you like, such as rotini, elbow macaroni, or fusilli. All work well in this dish!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap regular pasta for a gluten-free version. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free!
Now you have answers to some of the most common questions. Enjoy making your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet!
Conclusion
The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a simple, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy nights. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twists, this meal is flexible and satisfying.
Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients or mix up the spices to suit your taste. The best part? It’s all cooked in one pan, making clean-up a breeze!
We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as we do. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is everything you need in a meal. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have much time but still want something hearty and delicious.
One of the best things about this dish is that it’s made in just one pan. That means less clean-up, which is always a win! You can get it on the table in under 30 minutes, so it’s great for families or anyone who’s short on time.
The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is also super customizable. You can switch up the meat, add extra veggies, or use different cheeses to match your tastes. Want to make it spicy? Just toss in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Looking for a healthier version? Try swapping in ground turkey and gluten-free pasta. The choice is yours.
Plus, it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy. Kids love it, and adults do too! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making dinner for yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So, give it a try and see just how easy it is to create a comforting meal everyone will love.
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
Easy, hearty, and packed with flavor, this one-pan wonder combines ground beef, pasta, and melty cheese into a comforting weeknight dinner everyone will enjoy. Perfect for busy families!
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Pasta: 8 ounces (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- Shredded cheese: 2 cups (mozzarella & cheddar mix)
- Canned diced tomatoes: 14.5 ounces
- Beef broth: 1 cup
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms
- Spices: Red pepper flakes or hot sauce
- Fresh herbs: Basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté diced onion until soft (3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned (6-7 minutes). Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients
- Stir in canned diced tomatoes and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
- Add Cheese
- Mix in half of the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it melt.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Reserve Pasta Water: Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency later. It helps make the dish creamy and binds the sauce to the pasta.
- Choose the Right Skillet: Use a large, wide skillet to ensure there’s enough space for mixing all ingredients evenly without spilling.
- Cheese Melting Tip: Cover the skillet after adding the cheese on top to create a gooey, melted layer. For a crispy finish, broil it briefly in the oven if your skillet is oven-safe.
- Prep Time: 10 MIN
- Cook Time: 20 MIN