Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Looking for a comforting and easy weeknight meal? This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe is the answer! It's a one-pan dish packed with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melted cheese, all mixed in a flavorful, creamy tomato sauce. The best part? It's a family-friendly meal that comes together in under 30 minutes! Whether you're pressed for time or just craving some cozy comfort food, this cheesy ground beef pasta skillet is bound to be a hit. Keep reading for the step-by-step recipe and helpful tips to make this dish absolutely perfect.

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What Is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

A Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty one-pan meal combining ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a tomato-based sauce. The beef is browned and seasoned, the pasta is cooked right in the sauce, and it's all finished off with a generous helping of gooey melted cheese. It's like a quick version of a casserole, but much easier and faster to make! Perfect for busy nights when you want something filling and delicious without too much effort.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

To whip up this delicious dish, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty base for the dish.
• 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or shells work great): Any short pasta shape will do, as long as it can hold onto the sauce.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds flavor and sweetness.
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced: For that rich garlic flavor.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides a fresh tomato base for the sauce.
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Helps create a smooth, rich sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth: Adds depth of flavor and is used to cook the pasta.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: For an herbaceous and savory note.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a little smoky flavor and color.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella): The star ingredient that makes this dish ooey-gooey and irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional): For garnish and a fresh burst of flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs! Here are a few ideas:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Whole wheat pasta: Use whole wheat pasta to add more fiber and nutrients.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the beef and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Spicier version: Add more red pepper flakes, or toss in some chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
• Different cheese options: Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend cheese.
• Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure the beef broth and tomato sauce are gluten-free as well.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to make your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

1. Brown the ground beef:
   • In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside in a bowl.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic:
   • In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, then add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the sauce:
   • Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Add the broth and pasta:
   • Pour in the beef broth and stir. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the pasta cook in the sauce for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
   • Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, but not dry. If needed, add a little more broth or water.
5. Add the ground beef back in:
   • Once the pasta is cooked, return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together so the beef is evenly distributed in the pasta and sauce.
6. Add the cheese:
   • Turn off the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar (or cheese blend) over the top of the skillet. Stir to mix the cheese into the pasta, or leave it on top to melt for a gooey finish.
   • Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly.
7. Serve and garnish:
   • Once the cheese has melted into the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

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

Making Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is super easy, especially since everything cooks in one pan. Here are some extra tips to help you along the way:

• Use a large skillet: A deep skillet or sauté pan is ideal to prevent overflowing, especially when cooking the pasta in the sauce.
• Stir occasionally: Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust the broth: If the pasta absorbs the broth too quickly, feel free to add a little extra broth or water. The dish should remain saucy but not soupy.
• Control the cheese: For maximum cheesiness, mix half the cheese into the pasta and save the rest for melting on top at the end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, a few mistakes can affect the final dish. Here's what to watch out for:

• Not draining excess fat: If you don’t drain the fat after browning the ground beef, the dish may turn out greasy. Always drain off the fat for a cleaner, healthier meal.
• Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Overcooking will turn it mushy, so cook until just al dente, or even a little less, as the pasta will continue to cook in the hot sauce.
• Using too much cheese: While it’s tempting to add lots of cheese, too much can overpower the dish and make it overly rich. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here’s how to serve and present your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet to make it even more enticing:

• Serve family-style: Place the skillet in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves. It’s a cozy, casual way to enjoy this dish.
• Portion it out: For individual servings, scoop generous portions into bowls or plates, making sure each serving has plenty of beef, pasta, and cheese.
• Garnish for freshness: Add a final sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil over each serving for a burst of freshness and color. You can also serve with a side of garlic bread for dipping.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a simple side salad for balance, or garlic bread for even more comfort food goodness. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan on top for extra cheesy flavor. For a fun variation, serve the pasta in bread bowls for a truly indulgent experience!

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• Sprinkle extra cheese on top: Right before serving, add a little more cheese on top and let it melt for a gooey, cheesy presentation.
• Serve in mini skillets: For a unique twist, divide the pasta into individual cast iron skillets for serving. This gives a rustic, restaurant-style feel.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add some chopped green onions or chives on top for a colorful and fresh look.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

Here are a few bonus tips to help you make the best cheesy ground beef pasta skillet:

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time, then cook the pasta when you're ready to serve. This makes it even faster for busy weeknights.
• Reheat leftovers: This pasta reheats well! Simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
• Double the recipe: If you're cooking for a large group or want leftovers, this recipe is easy to double. Just use a larger skillet and adjust the pasta and broth accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! You can use any short pasta shape like rotini, fusilli, or even rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can prepare the ground beef and sauce ahead of time, then just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve. Leftovers reheat beautifully.

Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: To lighten it up, use lean ground beef or turkey, whole wheat pasta, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Q: Can I freeze this pasta skillet?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop with a little extra broth or water.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the perfect comfort meal when you’re craving something cozy, cheesy, and filling. It’s an easy, one-pan dinner that’s packed with flavor, and it comes together in no time. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, this cheesy pasta skillet is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite. Try it today and enjoy every comforting bite!

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