This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is rich, creamy, and flavorful, making it a perfect one-pan meal for any night of the week.

For a quick and comforting dinner, nothing better than a Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Their rich, creamy sauce with savory ground beef and tender pasta makes every bite delicious, and it’s the perfect meal for busy nights. This recipe is my husband’s favorite, and I’m not gonna lie, it’s also my favorite—definitely the best!

To make this dish, you only need a few simple ingredients like ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a bit of milk. You can also add some other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach if you like, and the result is just wow!

It’s a versatile dish that you can easily tweak to suit your taste, and it comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

And for a perfect meal, you can serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad, some roasted vegetables, or even steamed broccoli. This recipe is super easy to make, and it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your house!

Why Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Is Great?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is great because it’s a simple, one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and cheese makes it hearty and comforting, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and filling. The creamy, cheesy sauce adds richness, while the beef provides protein and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite type)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Skillet – To cook the ground beef, and pasta, and make the cheesy sauce all in one pan.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the ground beef and pasta while cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To measure out ingredients like pasta, broth, and seasonings.
• Colander – For draining the cooked pasta before adding it to the skillet.
• Knife and Cutting Board – To chop vegetables like onions, garlic, or any other add-ins.
• Grater – If using block cheese, you’ll need a grater to shred the cheese.
• Lid – To cover the skillet and help the cheese melt and the flavors combine.

How to make Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Step 1:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2:

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

Step 3:

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4:

Add the pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has absorbed.

Step 5:

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6:

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot!

Recipe Tips

• Use Lean Ground Beef: To reduce excess fat, use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher). This will make the dish lighter while still keeping it flavorful.

• Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning. Add more Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or even red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

• Use Different Cheese: While cheddar cheese is delicious, mix it up by adding mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor. A blend of cheeses gives it an extra creamy texture.

• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, you can add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Stir them in when the onions are soft for extra flavor and color.

• Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: For a healthier option, swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to check the pasta’s doneness frequently to avoid overcooking it. The pasta should be tender but not mushy, as it will continue to cook in the skillet after the heat is turned off.

What to serve with Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

I love to serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with a side of garlic bread. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce from the skillet, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite. It’s a simple side that complements the richness of the pasta.

I also enjoy pairing it with a fresh green salad. A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette helps balance out the cheesy, hearty pasta. The freshness of the salad adds a nice contrast to the creamy pasta dish.

For a more filling meal, I love to serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The vegetables add a healthy, colorful element to the plate and provide extra nutrients, making the meal more complete.

Try these Variations

Swap Ground Beef for Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version of the dish. It’s a great way to reduce calories while keeping the flavors intact.

Use Different Pasta: Swap out penne or rotini for other pasta shapes like farfalle, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Each shape adds a different texture and look to the dish.

Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a little heat. This gives the dish an exciting kick and balances out the richness of the cheese.

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat. This makes the dish vegetarian-friendly but still hearty and satisfying.

Add Cream Cheese: For an even creamier texture, mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese with the cheddar and Parmesan. It will make the sauce extra smooth and velvety.

How to store

To store Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze the skillet meal. Place it in a freezer-safe container, making sure it’s tightly sealed. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s hot and bubbly.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

• Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter version of the dish. It will still taste delicious but with less fat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

• Absolutely! You can swap penne for any type of pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

• Yes, you can substitute the cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut or almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.

How do I make this spicier?

• Add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce to give it a spicy kick.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

• Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to make it more nutritious and colorful.

Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

• Yes, you can use mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of different cheeses for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish creamier?

• Add cream cheese or a bit more milk to the sauce for extra creaminess and richness.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

• Yes, you can cook the beef and pasta in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients and cook on low for about 4 hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, like the broth and seasoning, are gluten-free.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

40

minutes

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is rich, creamy, and flavorful, making it a perfect one-pan meal for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 cup milk

• 2 cups pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite type)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Add the pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has absorbed.
• Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot!

Notes

• To reduce excess fat, use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher). This will make the dish lighter while still keeping it flavorful.