There is something truly comforting about a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal that comes together all in one pan, and that is exactly what makes the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe such a beloved dish. Imagine tender pasta mingling with savory ground beef, rich tomato flavors, and gooey melted cheese, creating a melding of flavors and textures that feel like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious, quick, and fuss-free but with a homey feel that satisfies everyone around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient, which combines to create a vibrant flavor and comforting texture. Every component plays a role, from the savory ground beef to the fresh garlic and onions, while the cheese brings it all together with a luscious finish.
- Ground beef (1 lb.): Provides hearty protein and a rich, meaty base full of flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps to brown the beef and sauté the aromatics with just the right amount of richness.
- Onion, diced (1): Offers subtle sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds a fragrant punch and enhances the savory notes in the skillet.
- Diced tomatoes, canned (14.5 oz, drained): Bring bright acidity and juiciness to balance the rich beef.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Infuses the pasta and sauce with umami and moisture, ensuring tenderness.
- Uncooked pasta (2 cups): Penne or elbow macaroni are best for holding sauce and cheese in every bite.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Provides a fragrant blend of herbs like oregano and basil that elevate the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
- Shredded cheese (2 cups): Cheddar or mozzarella melt beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy topping.
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): Adds a pop of green color and fresh herbal aroma when garnished.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet to ensure an even cooking surface. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. If excess fat accumulates, be sure to drain it off so the dish stays flavorful without being greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Cooking these until they are softened and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes, will naturally sweeten the dish and build the aromatic base that’s crucial for such a comforting recipe.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, Pasta & Seasoning
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes along with the beef broth, uncooked pasta, and Italian seasoning. This is where the magic begins because the pasta will cook right in the flavorful liquid, absorbing all those savory notes from the beef and herbs.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook Pasta
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover your skillet and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to make sure the pasta cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly been absorbed.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Finally, stir in the shredded cheese while the skillet is still hot, then cover it for a couple more minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt thoroughly, creating that creamy, stringy goodness that makes this dish a true delight.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Give your skillet a final seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you love a fresh herbal touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil right on top. Serve this cheesy, meaty pasta skillet hot and enjoy the burst of flavors in every mouthful.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley or basil are wonderful simple garnishes that add color and a hint of freshness, you can also try a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for those who appreciate a little heat. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing can also bring a cooling contrast to the warm, cheesy skillet.
Side Dishes
To complete your meal, consider pairing this skillet with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also superb companions that soak up any extra sauce and add a satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this for guests or a special occasion, try layering the skillet into individual oven-safe dishes, topping with cheese, and broiling briefly for a bubbly, golden crust. Alternatively, serve with a side of pickled jalapeños or olive tapenade for a creative fusion twist that amps up the flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making for a fantastic and quick meal the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, this skillet freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that pasta texture might soften slightly upon thawing, but the comforting flavors remain intact.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in intervals to avoid drying out. Adding a splash of beef broth or water will help refresh the sauce and keep the pasta tender and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, and you might want to tweak the seasoning to complement the different meat.
What kind of cheese melts best in this skillet?
Mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices due to their melting qualities and flavor, but feel free to experiment with a blend or even pepper jack for a little extra kick.
Is it okay to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check your pasta’s tenderness as it simmers with the sauce.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake later?
You can prepare the beef and sauce components ahead of time, then mix with uncooked pasta and refrigerate until ready to cook. When you’re ready, finish cooking on the stove or transfer to a baking dish and bake until bubbly.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes during the cooking process or include diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions and garlic for a nice spicy kick that complements the dish beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a reliable, comforting meal that combines ease with incredible flavor, the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe should be your go-to. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser with a perfect balance of hearty beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese that feels like home in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own family favorite too!
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a delicious and hearty one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is browned and combined with savory onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, then cooked with pasta in beef broth until tender. Topped off with melted cheddar or mozzarella cheese, this comforting dish is both easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or elbow macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if there’s too much remaining for a less greasy dish.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked beef in the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked pasta, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese evenly into the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet again and let it rest for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired to add a fresh herbal touch.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy ground beef pasta skillet hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Feel free to use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- For extra veggies, add bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions and garlic.
- Use whichever shredded cheese you prefer—cheddar gives a sharper flavor, while mozzarella offers a milder, creamier melt.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
