Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Craving a comforting, hearty meal that's quick and easy to make? Look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet! Packed with savory ground beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese, all simmered together in a flavorful sauce, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Not only is it family-friendly, but it also uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. With minimal prep and only one skillet to clean, this recipe will become your new go-to for a fast and filling dinner.

Keep reading for the full recipe, tips, variations, and everything you need to know to make this delicious dish!

What Is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick, one-pan dinner made by browning ground beef and combining it with pasta, cheese, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It's similar to a homemade version of hamburger helper but with fresher ingredients and more customizable options. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: everything cooks in one skillet, and the flavors meld together as the pasta absorbs the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy, and hearty meal in just about 30 minutes.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Here’s everything you need to make this cheesy, delicious skillet meal:

• Ground Beef – 1 pound of lean ground beef (85% lean is ideal).
• Onion – 1 medium onion, finely diced.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced.
• Pasta – 8 ounces of short pasta (elbow, penne, or rotini work well).
• Tomato Sauce – 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce.
• Beef Broth – 2 cups, for cooking the pasta and adding flavor.
• Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon, for added flavor.
• Paprika – ½ teaspoon, to give a little smoky kick.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups, for that melty, cheesy goodness.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – ½ cup, for extra stretchiness.
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon, for sautéing the vegetables.
• Optional Garnishes – Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for added color and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Ground Meat Options: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter or slightly different flavor.
• Pasta Choices: Any short pasta will work—try using fusilli, rigatoni, or shells if you prefer a different shape.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar and mozzarella are a great combination, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Sneak in some veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to make the dish even more nutritious.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe is as easy as it gets. Just follow these simple steps for a delicious one-pan meal.

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the Liquids and Seasoning: Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the skillet, making sure it is fully submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
5. Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese. Let the cheese melt into the pasta and beef mixture.
6. Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and gooey.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for extra flavor and a pop of color. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

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

1. Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef until browned, then drain the fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add onions and garlic to infuse the dish with flavor.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Add tomato sauce, broth, and seasoning for a flavorful base.
4. Cook the Pasta: Let the pasta simmer in the sauce until tender.
5. Mix in Cheese: Stir in cheese for creamy, cheesy goodness, and top with extra cheese for that melty finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Fat: If your ground beef is on the fattier side, be sure to drain the excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta can easily become mushy if overcooked, so keep an eye on it and taste it occasionally for doneness.
• Not Enough Liquid: If the pasta absorbs too much liquid and the skillet looks dry, add a bit more broth or water to keep it creamy and moist.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This hearty dish is best served straight from the skillet for that rustic, comforting vibe. You can dress it up or down depending on the occasion:

• Casual Serving: Place the skillet directly on the table (using a trivet!) for an easy, family-style dinner.
• Pair with Sides: Serve with garlic bread, a simple side salad, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• Family-Style: Serve this dish family-style in the skillet with a large spoon for easy scooping.
• Individual Bowls: For a more formal presentation, plate individual portions in pasta bowls and garnish with extra cheese and fresh herbs.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

For an eye-catching presentation, garnish the pasta with chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added color and heat. You can also serve the dish in small cast-iron skillets or individual ramekins for a rustic, charming look.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

• Use a Large Skillet: Make sure you use a large enough skillet to hold all the pasta, sauce, and cheese comfortably. A 12-inch skillet or larger works best.
• Double the Recipe: This dish doubles easily if you're feeding a crowd. Just use a larger skillet or a Dutch oven to accommodate the extra ingredients.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it in the skillet over low heat. Just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or bowties. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added broth or water to keep the pasta moist.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, filling meal that’s easy to make and loved by all. With its simple ingredients, bold flavors, and minimal cleanup, this one-pan dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or just want some comforting leftovers, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness!

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