If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together bold flavors, gooey cheese, and tender pasta all in one pan, then this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels a bit indulgent but is surprisingly simple to pull together. The combination of seasoned ground beef, savory tomato paste, and melty mozzarella cheese paired with perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish irresistibly delicious and satisfying every single time you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe shines because it uses simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch. Each item plays a vital role: the ground beef adds hearty richness, the tomato paste delivers depth, and the cheese brings that creamy, melty finish we’ve all come to crave.
- 2 cups ziti pasta, cooked: Cook to just before al dente for the best texture after combining with the beef mixture.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Helps brown the beef beautifully and adds a subtle fruitiness.
- 1 pound ground beef: The main protein that brings richness and heartiness to the skillet.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complements the beef perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and subtle sharpness.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional): For those who love a bit of a spicy kick.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and adds depth to the meat mixture.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that thickens and enriches the sauce.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and body to the dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley, plus more for garnish: Brings freshness and a pop of color to balance richness.
- Salt to taste: Essential to enhance all the flavors.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The star cheesy element that melts perfectly over the pasta and beef.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your ziti pasta according to the package instructions, but subtract one minute from the recommended cooking time so it finishes just shy of al dente. This ensures it won’t be mushy once combined in the skillet. Make sure to reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining – this starchy water is the secret to a velvety sauce later on.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it apart. Cook for about 2 minutes until the meat starts to brown and develop that gorgeous caramelized flavor. Then, lower the heat to medium to keep cooking without burning.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Season the beef with salt and black pepper, then add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and crushed red chili flakes if you’re using them. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste, which will deepen the flavor and thicken the mixture. Add the chopped parsley and the reserved pasta water (or plain water if you prefer). Let everything simmer together for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Cheese
Once the beef mixture is rich and fragrant, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, stirring to coat every bite. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and then cover the skillet with a lid for 2 to 3 minutes. This gentle heat will melt the cheese into a gooey blanket that pulls everything together. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing makes this skillet pop quite like a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can also add a pinch of red chili flakes if you want to amp up the heat or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra richness. A little grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the cheesiness even more – it’s all about customizing to your taste.
Side Dishes
This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but if you want to add some lightness, serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic options to scoop up every last bit of cheesy, meaty goodness running around the skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe straight out of the skillet on the table. It creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages sharing and seconds. You can also portion it into individual baking dishes and broil the cheese on top until bubbly and golden for a fancier presentation that impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the dish even tastier the next day. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture intact.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauciness. You can also microwave individual servings covered with a damp paper towel for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti is recommended for its shape and ability to hold sauce, penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni are all excellent substitutes that will work wonderfully with the rich beef and cheese sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sauté a hearty mix of mushrooms and lentils for a meat-free version that’s just as satisfying and packed with flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake it later?
You certainly can. Mix the beef and pasta as instructed, then refrigerate before adding cheese and baking. When ready, top with cheese and bake in a preheated oven until bubbly and golden.
How spicy is this dish with the chili flakes included?
The crushed red chili flakes add a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish. You can easily adjust the amount or omit them altogether depending on your heat preference.
What type of cheese works best if I don’t have mozzarella?
While mozzarella’s melty texture is ideal, you could also use Monterey Jack, provolone, or a mild cheddar for a different but delicious cheesy finish.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is truly one of those comforting, no-fuss meals that you’ll want to make over and over. The way the flavors come together so effortlessly, plus the ooey-gooey cheese that pulls everything into a perfect bite, makes it an absolute winner. Give it a try soon and watch it become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation.
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick and comforting one-pan meal combining tender ground beef, flavorful spices, and gooey melted mozzarella with perfectly cooked ziti pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that requires minimal cleanup and big flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Cooked Pasta
- 2 cups ziti pasta, cooked (see NOTES)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, reducing the cooking time by 1 minute to achieve the ideal texture. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta without rinsing to retain the starches needed for the sauce.
- Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 2 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it just starts to brown. Then reduce the heat to medium to avoid overcooking.
- Season and Simmer: Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, crushed red chili flakes if desired, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, chopped parsley, and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water (or plain water) to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the meat is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Add Pasta and Cheese: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture to combine evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt perfectly. Garnish with additional parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Do not rinse the pasta after draining to keep the starches, which help thicken the sauce.
- If you do not have ziti pasta, penne or rigatoni are good substitutes.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier melt, or substitute with cheddar or provolone for a different flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
