Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Dish in One Pan!
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a cheesy, hearty pasta skillet. This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the epitome of cozy, satisfying meals made simple. With its gooey cheese, savory ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a one-pan wonder that will quickly become a family favorite.
Why This Dish is a Game-Changer
Ultimate Comfort Food: Rich, creamy cheese paired with flavorful ground beef and pasta creates a meal that's both indulgent and satisfying.
One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne, rotini, or shells)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, stirring occasionally.
Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Season & Garnish: Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve the cheesy ground beef pasta skillet hot, straight from the pan. It’s perfect as a standalone meal or paired with a side salad or garlic bread.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Pasta Choices: Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or rotini. Adjust cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for varied flavors and textures.
Add-Ins: For extra veggies, consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just cook them along with the onions and garlic.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls to mop up every last bit of cheesy goodness.
Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Final Thoughts
The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, delivering comfort in every bite. With its creamy cheese, hearty beef, and tender pasta, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try and savor the ultimate comfort food experience!
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