Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Craving a quick, hearty, and cheesy comfort meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners? Look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe! With juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all made in one skillet, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s a family-friendly meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights. Plus, it's incredibly versatile, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious one-pan wonder!

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What is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a simple and comforting meal made with browned ground beef, pasta, and a cheesy tomato sauce, all cooked together in one skillet. It’s a little bit like a homemade hamburger helper but even better because you control the ingredients and flavors. This dish is incredibly satisfying with the perfect combination of meat, cheese, and pasta. Best of all, it’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious and easy dinner:

• 1 pound ground beef – Lean or extra lean is preferable, but you can use any ground beef and drain the excess fat.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For extra savory flavor.
• 2 cups uncooked pasta – Elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work great in this dish.
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes – Undrained, for some texture and flavor in the sauce.
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce – Forms the base of the sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth – Helps cook the pasta directly in the skillet and adds flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – For an extra boost of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a mild smoky flavor (optional).
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – For a slight kick (optional).
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Or your favorite melting cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley or green onions (optional) – For garnish and a touch of color.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is flexible, so feel free to make substitutions based on what you have on hand:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat substitutes or skip the meat altogether and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Different Cheeses: Try using a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
• Spice it Up: If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the dish.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta or a chickpea-based pasta to boost the fiber content.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet in a few easy steps:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Season and Add Tomatoes: Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with the juice) and the can of tomato sauce.
4. Add Pasta and Broth: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, then pour in the beef broth. Stir to combine everything, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
5. Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed. If needed, add a little more broth or water if the pasta absorbs the liquid too quickly before fully cooking.
6. Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese until it melts into the sauce, making everything rich and creamy.
7. Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and serve your cheesy ground beef pasta hot.

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

1. Step 1: Brown the Beef – Browning the beef first adds flavor and ensures the meat is fully cooked before the rest of the ingredients are added.
2. Step 2: Add Aromatics – Cooking the onions and garlic with the beef deepens the flavor of the dish and gives it that comforting, savory base.
3. Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth – Cooking the pasta directly in the skillet allows it to absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
4. Step 4: Make it Cheesy – Stir in cheese to make the sauce extra creamy, then top it off with a final layer of melted cheese for that irresistible cheesy finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Browning the Beef: Browning the ground beef properly adds depth and richness to the dish. Make sure you cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta while it simmers. You want it al dente, not mushy. Stir occasionally and check the pasta a few minutes before the end of the cooking time.
• Not Adjusting Liquid: If the pasta absorbs the liquid too quickly, add a little more broth or water to ensure it cooks evenly.
• Skipping the Cheese Layer: The final layer of melted cheese adds extra flavor and texture, so don’t skip this step!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet directly from the skillet for a casual, family-style dinner. This dish is great with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. You can also sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes on top for added flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Spoon the cheesy pasta onto plates or shallow bowls and serve immediately while hot. This dish pairs well with simple sides like a Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or even steamed broccoli to keep the meal balanced.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• Skillet to Table: For a rustic, casual presentation, bring the skillet directly to the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley, green onions, or even basil over the top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Cheese: Set out a small bowl of extra shredded cheese or grated Parmesan for guests to sprinkle on their pasta.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

• Adjust the Liquid: If you find that the pasta is absorbing the broth too quickly, just add a little more to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
• Use a Heavy Skillet: A cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan works best for even heat distribution.
• Make Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out.

What pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work best because they cook evenly and hold the sauce well. Avoid using long pasta like spaghetti.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage would be delicious substitutes for ground beef.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?
To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to cook it to al dente. Stir occasionally and check the pasta a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to see if it’s done.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is a one-pan wonder that combines the comforting flavors of tender pasta, juicy ground beef, and plenty of gooey cheese. It's a simple, no-fuss meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry family. With minimal prep and cleanup, this dish will quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving it as-is or pairing it with a side salad, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!

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