Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner? This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is an easy, one-pan meal that combines juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you need something hearty and flavorful in under 30 minutes. Packed with savory flavors and ooey-gooey cheese, this dish will become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can whip up this delicious meal in no time!

What Is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a one-pan meal that’s made by cooking ground beef, pasta, and cheese all together in a skillet. It’s like a quick version of hamburger helper, but even better because it’s homemade! The dish features browned ground beef, onions, garlic, and seasonings cooked together with pasta and a cheesy sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknights when you need a warm, comforting meal without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

To make this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, here’s what you’ll need:

1. Ground Beef – 1 pound of lean ground beef (80-90% lean works best).
2. Onion – 1 small yellow onion, diced.
3. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced.
4. Pasta – 8 ounces of small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni.
5. Beef Broth – 2 cups to cook the pasta and add flavor.
6. Diced Tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained.
7. Tomato Paste – 2 tablespoons to add richness and depth.
8. Worcestershire Sauce – 1 tablespoon for an umami boost.
9. Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon for added herb flavor.
10. Paprika – 1 teaspoon for a subtle smoky flavor.
11. Salt and Pepper – To season the beef and sauce.
12. Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
13. Heavy Cream or Milk – ½ cup to make the sauce extra creamy.
14. Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon for sautéing the onions and garlic.

Additional Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

You can also customize this recipe by adding some of the following ingredients:

1. Bell Peppers – Diced bell peppers can add a pop of color and extra flavor.
2. Mushrooms – Sliced mushrooms add earthiness and texture to the dish.
3. Hot Sauce – For a little heat, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
4. Parmesan Cheese – Add some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.
5. Spinach – Fresh spinach can be stirred in at the end for added nutrients and color.
6. Crumbled Bacon – Crispy bacon crumbles can take the flavor to another level.

Substitutions and Variations

This dish is versatile, and you can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand:

1. Ground Meat Substitutes – If you don’t have ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage.
2. Different Cheese Options – Feel free to swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack if you want a spicier kick.
3. Gluten-Free Option – Use your favorite gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
4. Vegetarian Option – Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
5. Low-Carb Option – Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower for a lower-carb take on this dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the diced onion until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Season the Beef: Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
3. Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
4. Make It Cheesy: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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

1. Brown the Beef: The key to a flavorful base is browning the beef well. Make sure to break it up into small crumbles and drain any excess fat.
2. Cook Pasta Directly in the Skillet: Cooking the pasta directly in the skillet with the beef and broth allows the pasta to absorb all those savory flavors while it cooks, making for a richer dish.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta while it simmers, stirring occasionally. You want it to be al dente when you add the cheese and cream to avoid mushy pasta.
4. Finish with Cheese: Adding cheese at the end helps create a gooey, creamy finish. Letting it melt into the sauce ensures every bite is cheesy and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Draining the Beef – If you don’t drain the fat from the beef, the dish may become greasy, and the sauce won’t have the right consistency.
2. Overcooking the Pasta – Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook a little even after you remove it from the heat.
3. Not Seasoning Enough – Make sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. The beef broth, tomatoes, and cheese provide lots of flavor, but you might want to add a bit more salt or spice to suit your taste.
4. Skipping the Simmer – Letting the pasta simmer covered ensures it absorbs all the flavors. Don’t rush this step, or you’ll end up with undercooked pasta or a watery sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty dish that doesn’t need much more to complete it, but you can elevate the meal with a few simple additions:

1. Serve with Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
2. Add a Simple Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a Caesar salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
3. Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to the dish.
4. Serve Family Style: Bring the skillet straight to the table and let everyone serve themselves. This dish is perfect for sharing.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• In the Skillet: For a rustic presentation, serve the pasta directly from the skillet. This keeps the meal warm and creates a cozy, family-style atmosphere.
• Individual Bowls: For a more polished presentation, ladle the pasta into individual bowls and garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Meal Prep Option: This dish makes great leftovers. Divide into meal prep containers for an easy lunch throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

1. Skillet-to-Table: Serve the pasta skillet straight from the stove to the table, keeping it hot and ready for family-style sharing.
2. Layer with Cheese: Before serving, you can broil the top of the skillet for a few minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese layer.
3. Top with Fresh Veggies: Add diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or fresh spinach as a garnish for a pop of color and freshness.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese, which is often coated with anti-caking agents.
2. Double the Recipe for Leftovers: This dish stores well, so consider doubling the recipe and saving half for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
3. Add More Veggies: Sneak in extra nutrition by adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. They blend in well with the sauce and beef.
4. Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the dish. You can also top it with pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with a variety of pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra broth or milk to keep the pasta from drying out.

Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet with a little broth or milk.

What can I substitute for beef broth?

You can use chicken or vegetable broth if you don’t have beef broth on hand. Water can also work, but the broth adds more flavor.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. You may need to add a little extra seasoning to make up for the lower fat content in the turkey.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that the whole family will love. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Best of all, it’s made in just one skillet, which means fewer dishes to clean up! Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or prepping it ahead for lunches, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.

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