Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Need a quick, satisfying dinner that’s a hit with both kids and adults? Look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet! This one-pan dish combines ground beef, tender pasta, and loads of cheese into a delicious, creamy, and comforting meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the whole family will love the savory flavors and cheesy goodness. Keep reading to learn how to make this simple and mouthwatering recipe!

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What is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is an easy, one-pan meal that brings together tender pasta, ground beef, and a cheesy sauce for a complete meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. The dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic, and tomatoes, simmered together with pasta and topped with plenty of melted cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s filling, delicious, and super easy to make. You can even customize it with different cheeses, spices, and vegetables to suit your taste.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra richness)
• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work great)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
• ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to adjust it to your tastes or dietary preferences:

• Ground beef: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor or a leaner option.
• Pasta: Use any short pasta you like—elbow macaroni, shells, or farfalle are great choices. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
• Cheese: Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Vegetables: Add in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to make it a more balanced meal.
• Spices: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or cumin for an extra savory touch.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet in a few easy steps. You’ll have a comforting, cheesy meal ready in no time!

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

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Cook the beef: In a large skillet or deep pan, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Season: Season the beef with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

1. Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Pasta

1. Stir in the tomatoes: Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato paste (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine.
2. Add the pasta: Pour in the uncooked pasta and beef broth (or water). Stir to make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Cooked

1. Cook the pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Cream

1. Stir in the cream: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream (if using) to make the dish extra creamy and rich.
2. Melt the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cheese to melt and coat the pasta in a deliciously creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve the Pasta

1. Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. For a fresh touch, garnish the dish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
2. Serve hot: Scoop the cheesy pasta into bowls and enjoy immediately!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes when making Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

1. Not draining the beef: If your ground beef has a lot of fat, be sure to drain the excess grease after browning to avoid a greasy dish.
2. Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. You want it to be tender but still firm to the bite (al dente). Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
3. Adding too much liquid: Be mindful of how much liquid you add. If there’s too much broth, the sauce might be too runny. If this happens, just cook it uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow the excess liquid to evaporate.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here’s how to make your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet even more inviting and delicious:

• Serve with sides: Pair this hearty pasta with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Garnish for color: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or green onions adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
• Add extra cheese: For extra indulgence, sprinkle some more cheese over the top and place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes to create a bubbly, cheesy crust.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Family-style: Serve it directly from the skillet at the table for a casual, family-style meal. It’s perfect for digging in right away!
• Individual bowls: For a more portioned presentation, scoop the pasta into individual bowls and garnish with extra cheese and herbs.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Here are a few simple ways to elevate the presentation of your cheesy pasta dish:

• Serve in a cast-iron skillet: If you have a cast-iron skillet, it will keep the dish warm for longer and adds a rustic, homestyle look to your table.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or green onions adds a pop of color and makes the dish look extra appetizing.
• Add a crunchy topping: For added texture, sprinkle some crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or crumbled bacon over the top just before serving.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to help you nail this recipe every time:

• Use a large skillet: Make sure you use a large enough skillet to hold the pasta, beef, and sauce. A 12-inch skillet works well for this recipe.
• Cook the pasta in the sauce: Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce allows it to absorb all the flavors and creates a creamier, richer dish.
• Don’t skimp on cheese: The cheese is what makes this dish so deliciously indulgent, so don’t be shy with it! Add extra cheese on top if you want a gooey, cheesy crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the dish up to the point of adding the cheese. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat on the stovetop and stir in the cheese just before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage would work well as a substitute for ground beef.

Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?
A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly, adding a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creaminess.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth if the pasta looks dry to revive its creamy texture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort food that’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. With tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and a cheesy sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a meal that everyone will love. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor—and the best part is that it all comes together in a single skillet. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a cozy, delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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