Name: Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth

If you're looking for a quick, hearty, and delicious meal that satisfies the whole family, look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe! With tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving comfort food. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also a dish everyone will love. Ready to dig into a comforting plate of cheesy goodness? Read on to discover how to make this delectable meal step-by-step!

What Is a Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

A Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a simple, flavorful dish that combines the classic duo of ground beef and pasta with a generous amount of cheese. All the ingredients cook in one skillet, making it a quick, fuss-free meal with minimal cleanup. It’s essentially a grown-up version of mac and cheese with the added bonus of hearty beef, tomatoes, and spices. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy a rich, cheesy pasta dish that’s bursting with savory flavors.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

Ground Beef (1 lb) – Lean ground beef works best for a less greasy dish. Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratios.
Pasta (8 oz) – Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne are ideal for this dish.
Onion (1 small, diced) – Adds depth of flavor to the ground beef.
Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced) – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a touch of warmth.
Canned Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) – For added texture and tangy goodness.
Tomato Sauce (1 can, 8 oz) – Provides a smooth, rich base to coat the pasta.
Beef Broth (2 cups) – Adds moisture and flavor, helping the pasta cook directly in the skillet.
Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – The star of the dish, making everything creamy and cheesy.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Adds that stretchy, melty goodness we all love.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – For an herbaceous kick.
Paprika (1 tsp) – Provides a slight smoky flavor.
Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing the vegetables.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe is its versatility. Here are some substitution ideas to suit different preferences or dietary restrictions:

Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap out the beef for a leaner protein like ground turkey or chicken.
Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta – Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber, or gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegetarian Version – Replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Cheese Variations – Try swapping cheddar with Colby Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for a different flavor.
Add Vegetables – You can add veggies like spinach, peas, or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.
Spicy Kick – For a spicier dish, consider adding a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño.

Feel free to mix and match these substitutions to suit your taste!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Cooking this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is incredibly easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and once heated, add the diced onions. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together, ensuring the seasonings are well incorporated.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the tomato sauce. Stir to combine. Then, add 2 cups of beef broth to the skillet, which will serve as the liquid to cook the pasta.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Once the liquid is simmering, add your choice of short pasta (such as elbow macaroni or rotini) directly into the skillet. Stir the pasta to make sure it’s submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked to your desired doneness, it’s time to add the cheese! Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella. Mix until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly.

Step 6: Final Cheese Layer

For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the top. Cover the skillet again and allow the cheese to melt completely, creating a deliciously gooey top layer.

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

To make things easier, here's a simplified breakdown of how to cook your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

Sauté onions and brown ground beef.
Add garlic and seasonings.
Incorporate diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Add pasta and cook until tender.
Mix in cheese until melted and creamy.
Top with extra cheese and let it melt before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cooking a one-pan recipe like Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking the Pasta – Pasta can quickly become mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to avoid overcooking.
Not Draining the Fat – If using high-fat ground beef, make sure to drain the excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
Too Much Liquid – Be careful not to add too much broth, as it can make the dish too soupy. Stick to the recipe’s liquid measurements.
Skipping the Cheese Layer – That final layer of melted cheese adds the wow factor, so don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving and presenting your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet can elevate this simple dish to something special. Here are a few ideas to make it even more appealing:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve with Garlic Bread – Pair the dish with warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
Add a Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Family-Style – Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy feel, or transfer to a large, decorative serving bowl.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta

There are many ways to serve this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

Casual Weeknight Dinner – Serve the dish family-style directly from the skillet.
Party Dish – This recipe is perfect for potlucks or gatherings. Transfer to a casserole dish and keep it warm in the oven until serving.
Lunch Leftovers – This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

For presentation, consider these ideas:

Individual Bowls – Serve the pasta in individual bowls, topped with extra cheese and fresh parsley.
Skillet to Table – If you’re keeping it rustic, serve straight from the skillet for a homestyle vibe.
Add Some Crusty Bread – Place a few slices of crusty bread around the edge of the serving dish to soak up all the cheesy sauce.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe Tips

Cook Pasta Al Dente – Cooking the pasta just until al dente will help prevent it from becoming too soft once it absorbs the sauce.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – For the best melt and texture, grate your cheese at home rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
Let the Cheese Melt Fully – Allow the cheese to melt completely in the final step for that signature gooey, cheesy finish.
Customize with Toppings – Feel free to top with extras like red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, or even crushed tortilla chips for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta will work well in this dish. Try penne, shells, or rotini.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it in the oven or microwave. It makes great leftovers!

Q3: Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try using cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a spicy Pepper Jack for extra flavor.

Q5: How do I prevent my pasta from getting mushy?
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente and avoid overcooking in the skillet to maintain the best texture.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, cheesy, and satisfying meal that you can whip up in under 30 minutes! This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is perfect for any night when you need a comforting meal that pleases everyone. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan dish offers ease, flavor, and the ultimate comfort food experience. Try it out and enjoy the cheesy goodness!