Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy ground beef pasta skillet to satisfy your cravings. This one-pan dish is loaded with flavor, combining savory ground beef, tender pasta, and melted mozzarella cheese into a deliciously hearty meal. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how to prepare this irresistible cheesy ground beef pasta skillet, explore its nutritional benefits, provide helpful cooking tips, and even answer some frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, saving time and effort.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes—perfect for hectic evenings.
• Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love a dish covered in melty mozzarella?
• Packed with Flavor: A blend of Italian seasoning, garlic, and beef stock makes this dish absolutely mouthwatering.
• Family-Friendly: A meal that both kids and adults will devour happily.

Ingredients & Substitutions

To make the perfect cheesy ground beef pasta skillet, you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – For sautéing and adding rich flavor.
• 1 medium onion, finely diced – Enhances the savory depth of the dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced – Adds sweetness and color.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a fragrant kick.
• 1.5 pounds lean ground beef – The hearty base of the dish.
• 1 pound dry pasta (penne or rotini) – Holds the sauce well.
• 2 to 3 cups beef stock – Provides moisture for cooking the pasta.
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce – Forms a rich, velvety sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – Infuses the dish with aromatic herbs.
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a cheesy finish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – A fresh garnish for added color and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner alternative to beef.
• Gluten-Free Pasta – For those with dietary restrictions.
• Cheddar or Parmesan Cheese – Adds a different cheesy twist.
• Vegetable or Chicken Stock – If you don’t have beef stock on hand.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.
• Add diced onion and red bell pepper, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until no longer pink.
• Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Pasta & Sauce

• Stir in the dry pasta, 2 cups beef stock, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning.
• Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
• Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• If the mixture thickens too much before the pasta is cooked, add more beef stock as needed.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

• Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
• Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
• Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Skillet Pasta

• Use Fresh Garlic: It adds a deeper, richer flavor than pre-minced garlic.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: It will continue to soften as it sits.
• Let the Cheese Melt Naturally: Covering the skillet allows for perfect meltiness without drying out the dish.
• Customize with Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.

2. Can I freeze cheesy ground beef pasta skillet?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

3. What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne and rotini are great choices because they hold the sauce well. You can also use elbow macaroni or shells.

4. Can I make this a low-carb meal?

Yes! Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

5. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This cheesy ground beef pasta skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal, combining savory beef, hearty pasta, and gooey melted cheese into a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping, or just craving something delicious, this recipe is a winner. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Try it today and let us know how you liked it!

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