Quick and Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe for Hassle-Free Cooking

A warm and hearty meal, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, delicious, and satisfying. This one-pan wonder combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce, making it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience – Minimal cleanup makes it a great choice for busy evenings.
• Quick preparation – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Budget-friendly – Uses simple pantry staples.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable with different cheeses, meats, or veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 ½ cups uncooked pasta (elbow, rotini, or penne)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
3. Add liquids and pasta: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well, then add the uncooked pasta.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
5. Add the cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Let the residual heat melt the cheese into a creamy sauce.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Variations

• Swap the meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the beef with mushrooms or a meat substitute.
• Add veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or macaroni will work well.

How can I make this dish creamier?

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for the beef and onions, then pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.

What cheese melts best in this dish?

Cheddar and mozzarella work well, but you can also try Monterey Jack or gouda.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

You can, but reduce the liquid amount and cooking time.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.

What sides go well with this dish?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this meal.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes.

How do I add more protein?

Stir in cooked sausage, bacon, or even beans for extra protein.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your broth and sauces are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a lifesaver for those nights when you need something quick, hearty, and satisfying. It’s easy to customize, perfect for the whole family, and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a comforting meal, this dish is sure to be a hit!

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