If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty dinner that can be whipped up in no time, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Not only is it perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also a family favorite thanks to its cheesy, savory, and rich flavors. Imagine tender pasta coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce combined with flavorful ground beef. This one-pan dish is sure to become your go-to meal. Follow along and discover how to create this delicious recipe with ingredients you already have in your pantry!

What is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick and easy dish made in just one pan, consisting of ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. The combination of savory beef, tender pasta, and melted cheese creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for feeding a family or even meal prepping for the week. This dish brings together protein, carbs, and cheese in one comforting bowl. Not only is it filling and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious skillet pasta:
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides a rich, savory flavor. Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat or a fattier blend for more richness.
- Pasta (2 cups, uncooked): Short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni works best for this dish. They hold up well and trap the sauce.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds a sweet, caramelized base flavor to the dish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall taste and aroma with a punch of garlicky goodness.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds moisture and a tangy tomato flavor to the dish.
- Tomato Sauce (1 cup): Thickens and binds the ingredients together in a savory, saucy mix.
- Beef Broth (2 cups): Helps cook the pasta and infuses the dish with even more savory flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): The star of the show! Melty, gooey cheddar makes the dish creamy and delicious.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs like oregano and basil to boost the overall flavor.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a bit of warmth and depth.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing the vegetables.
Substitutions and Variations
The best part about this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some common substitutions and variations you can make:
- Ground Meat Options: If you don’t have ground beef, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
- Pasta Types: If you don’t have short pasta, you can use other varieties like fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells. Gluten-free pasta can also be used for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Cheese: While cheddar cheese gives the dish a rich flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder flavor, or pepper jack if you want a bit of spice.
- Vegetable Additions: For a boost of nutrition, you can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
- Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños if you want to give the dish a spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps to make your cheesy ground beef pasta skillet:
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up into small pieces. Cook until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the flavors with the ground beef.
- Pour in Tomatoes and Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Stir in the uncooked pasta and beef broth. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Once the pasta is tender, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the dish becomes creamy and cheesy.
- Serve Hot: Turn off the heat and let the skillet sit for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep the Ingredients: Make sure you have all ingredients ready—this makes the cooking process smoother and faster.
- Brown the Beef and Veggies: The key to building flavor is to properly brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic.
- Simmer with Broth: Cooking the pasta directly in the skillet with the beef broth allows the pasta to soak up all the flavors, making the dish even more delicious.
- Melt the Cheese: Adding cheese at the very end ensures that it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce without separating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is pretty straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Not Browning the Beef Enough: Ensure you fully brown the ground beef to develop a rich, deep flavor.
- Undercooking or Overcooking the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. You want it to be tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Not Enough Cheese: Don’t skimp on the cheese! The dish should be creamy and cheesy throughout.
- Forgetting to Drain Excess Fat: If you’re using a fattier ground beef, make sure to drain the excess grease to avoid a greasy dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve and present this dish can make a huge difference in elevating it from a simple meal to a family-favorite dinner. Here’s how to make it stand out:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Pairing the cheesy pasta with a slice of crusty garlic bread will enhance the overall meal experience.
- Add a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette will provide balance to this rich and hearty dish.
- Portion Control: Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for an appealing presentation.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
This dish is a complete meal in itself, but you can serve it alongside other dishes to create a more elaborate dinner. Some great pairing options include:
- Garlic Bread: Nothing goes better with pasta than a slice of warm garlic bread.
- Green Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens and a tangy dressing will cut through the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a boost of veggies.
Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
If you’re serving this to guests or just want to make it look more appealing, here are some presentation tips:
- Serve in a Cast Iron Skillet: Bringing the skillet straight to the table adds a rustic, homey feel.
- Garnish with Cheese: After plating, sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar or parmesan on top.
- Use Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or basil adds a vibrant touch and enhances the flavors.
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect how it melts. For the best cheesy sauce, shred the cheese yourself.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to absorb liquid even after the heat is off, it’s important to not overcook it in the skillet.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed, especially salt and pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to cool it completely and store it in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a bit of broth or water to loosen it up.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the pasta. You can also microwave it, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni will work well in this dish.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, comforting, and delicious meal. With minimal ingredients, a simple process, and endless variations, it’s a dish you’ll want to add to your weekly rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a cozy dinner, this cheesy, beefy pasta dish is guaranteed to hit the spot. Give it a try, and don’t forget to serve it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal!
PrintCheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe is the perfect blend of hearty ground beef, creamy melted cheese, and tender pasta. Ideal for a quick dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a satisfying meal packed with flavor. Keywords: Cheesy pasta, Ground beef recipe, Skillet dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth, then bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and cover, simmering for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
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