There is something irresistibly comforting about a one-pan meal that brings creamy cheese, hearty ground beef, and tender pasta together in perfect harmony. This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is an absolute weeknight winner that delivers bold flavors without fuss, making your dinner warm, filling, and downright delicious. With every bite, the melty cheddar and mozzarella mingle with juicy tomatoes and savory seasonings, creating a dish that feels like a big, cozy hug from your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the heart of this dish and each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrancy. From the savory ground beef to the stringy cheeses, every component comes together effortlessly for a beautiful dinner.
- 1 lb ground beef: The main protein that adds rich, hearty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when softened in the skillet.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant freshness that lifts every other ingredient.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall taste.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Gives gentle heat and balance to the savory profile.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that brings warmth and complexity.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of spice for those who like a little extra kick.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides bright acidity and juicy bursts throughout the skillet.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, lightly tangy base for the sauce.
- 1 ½ cups beef broth: Adds richness and helps the pasta cook right in the skillet.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow): The carb foundation that soaks up all the savory goodness.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy, sharp pockets of cheesy delight.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey stretchiness and mild creaminess on top.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbaceous finish.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned and crumbled. This is where all that delicious savory flavor begins to build. Make sure to break the meat apart as it cooks for even browning. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the dish balanced and not too oily.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic straight into the skillet with the beef. Cook them together for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic releases its lovely aroma. This step brings a warm, fragrant base that will make your kitchen smell wonderful.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Now it’s time to sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir everything well to coat the meat and vegetables. These warming spices deepen the flavor layers and add a subtle aromatic complexity.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Sauce, and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, the tomato sauce, and the beef broth. Mix everything thoroughly so the sauce begins to form a flavorful, slightly saucy base where the pasta will cook. This liquid mixture will infuse the pasta with all the meaty, tangy goodness.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s fully submerged in the sauce and broth. Bring the skillet to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but not mushy. Cooking the pasta right in the sauce is what makes this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe incredibly convenient and flavorful.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheese
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese directly into the skillet until it melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the cheese on top to melt into irresistibly gooey perfection.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. This final touch makes the dish look enticing and adds a pleasant herbaceous note that balances the richness.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish for this dish, offering a bright color contrast and a mild herbal flavor that cuts through the richness. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for heat or a dusting of Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp mixed greens or a simple garden salad to add crunch and freshness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect companions to mop up every last bit of cheesy, saucy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this recipe in individual cast iron skillets right at the table—it keeps the dish piping hot and makes the meal feel extra special. Alternatively, plate it with a colorful side of steamed veggies for a balanced and inviting presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually meld together more after sitting overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal. Consume within 3 to 4 days for best quality.
Freezing
You can freeze this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe for up to 2 months. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, pressing out as much air as possible. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and prevent sticking. You can add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating works too; just cover and heat in short intervals while stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella offer a perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a little Parmesan to customize the flavor to your liking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What kind of pasta works best in this skillet recipe?
Penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni are ideal because they hold onto the sauce well and cook evenly in the liquid. Avoid very thin pastas like angel hair that can become mushy during simmering.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat later?
Definitely. This recipe holds up well when made ahead. Keep it refrigerated and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to eat. The flavors only get better with time!
How can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Try stirring in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach when you add the onion and garlic. These veggies cook quickly and add wonderful color, texture, and nutrition without overpowering the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe has become one of those go-to dishes that feels like comfort food made easy and satisfying every single time. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something hearty without the hassle. Trust me, once you try this melty, flavorful skillet, it might just become a favorite staple in your weekly dinner rotation too!
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a delicious and hearty one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is browned with onions and garlic, then simmered together with pasta, tomatoes, and flavorful seasonings. Topped with a blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, this creamy and comforting dish comes together quickly and satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Drain Excess Grease: If there is excess grease in the skillet, carefully drain it off to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Add Tomato and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Add Uncooked Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, pushing it down so it is submerged in the liquid as much as possible to ensure even cooking.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Melt Cheese into Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture.
- Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the mozzarella evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Melt Topping Cheese: Cover the skillet again and let it sit off the heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the top layer of cheese to melt.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lid, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, then serve the cheesy ground beef pasta warm.
Notes
- Red pepper flakes are optional; omit for a milder dish or increase for more heat.
- Use any short pasta shape such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni.
- Be careful when draining grease so as not to lose any browned bits that add flavor.
- Covering the skillet while melting cheese helps achieve a perfect gooey topping.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use low-fat cheese and broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
