Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

In the mood for a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make dish? Look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe! Combining rich, savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Packed with flavor and ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s a one-pot meal the whole family will love. Stick around for the full recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and ways to customize the dish to your taste. Let’s get cooking!

What Is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a simple and delicious one-pan meal that combines tender pasta, juicy ground beef, savory seasonings, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish that allows for easy substitutions, making it adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand. This meal is perfect for busy families who need a quick dinner, or for anyone looking to satisfy their comfort food cravings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get ready to create this delicious skillet meal.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

To make this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef – Use lean ground beef for a healthier option or ground chuck for extra flavor.
• 8 ounces of pasta – Elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne work well, but feel free to use your favorite type of pasta.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth to the dish.
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced – For that classic, aromatic touch.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and tangy flavor to balance the richness of the cheese and beef.
• 1 cup of beef broth – Helps cook the pasta and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning – A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme for extra flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season according to your preference.
• 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese – The star of the show! You can use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil – For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Optional toppings: fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan cheese.

Substitutions and Variations

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is highly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are some ideas:

• Ground meat alternatives: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Pasta options: If you don’t have elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne on hand, try using spaghetti, farfalle (bow-tie pasta), or fusilli.
• Cheese choices: Not a fan of cheddar? Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby can work just as well.
• Tomatoes: If you prefer a smoother texture, substitute diced tomatoes with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes.
• Spice it up: Add some heat by tossing in a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetables: For extra nutrition, stir in vegetables like spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Feel free to mix and match according to your taste and dietary needs!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking this dish is a breeze, thanks to its one-skillet method. Follow these simple steps to make the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

1. Brown the ground beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain the excess fat from the skillet and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the pasta, tomatoes, and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and pasta. Stir everything together to combine. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer until pasta is tender: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Stir in the cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and everything is evenly combined.
6. Finish with optional toppings: If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and presentation.

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

Let’s break down the cooking process in more detail:

1. Preparing the ground beef: Start by heating your skillet on medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks. Make sure to stir frequently to avoid burning. Cook until no pink remains, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain the excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
2. Building the flavor base: After removing the cooked beef, sauté the onions in the same skillet. This step builds flavor by using the leftover fat and browned bits from the beef. Cook the onions until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic during the last minute to prevent it from burning.
3. Simmering the pasta: Add the pasta, canned tomatoes, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir everything well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil before lowering the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
4. Cheese time: Once the pasta is perfectly tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, it’s time to add the cheese. Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, allowing it to melt evenly throughout the skillet. The result? A perfectly creamy and cheesy pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining excess fat: Ground beef can be greasy, so make sure to drain any excess fat after browning. Too much grease can make the dish overly rich and unpleasant.
• Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy, especially in one-pan dishes where the liquid continues to evaporate.
• Adding cheese too early: Adding cheese before the pasta is fully cooked can cause it to melt unevenly or clump together. Always add the cheese at the very end, once the heat is off.
• Not seasoning enough: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Make sure to season the dish with salt and pepper to your liking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The beauty of the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is that it’s a one-pan meal that looks just as great as it tastes. Here are some tips for serving and presentation:

• Garnish with herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve family-style: Bring the skillet straight to the table for a rustic, family-style dinner. It makes for easy serving and keeps the dish warm.
• Individual portions: Ladle the cheesy pasta into bowls for a comforting, cozy presentation.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet pairs well with simple side dishes that balance the richness of the meal. Consider serving it with:

• A fresh green salad: A light, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic bread or breadsticks: Something to mop up the cheesy sauce!
• Roasted vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for added nutrition.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

For a beautiful presentation:

• Use cast-iron or colorful skillets: A cast-iron skillet keeps the dish warm and looks great on the table. Colorful non-stick pans can also add visual appeal.
• Garnish generously: Fresh herbs, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or red pepper flakes can add visual contrast and elevate the presentation.
• Serve with matching plates: Simple white plates can make the vibrant colors of the pasta and beef pop.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture.
• Stir frequently while simmering: Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to avoid it sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Adjust the liquid: If you notice the skillet drying out before the pasta is fully cooked, add a little more beef broth or water as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the pasta.

2. Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, though shorter pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or bowties are best for this one-pot method.

4. What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar is ideal because it melts smoothly and has a strong flavor. However, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses would also work well.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a more nutritious meal.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a delicious, comforting, and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights or whenever you need a quick dinner. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences, making it a go-to recipe in any home kitchen. Happy cooking!

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