Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and quick dinner, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the answer. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan meal is loaded with ground beef, tender pasta, and melty mozzarella cheese, bringing all the flavors you love in an easy-to-make dish. The best part? It all comes together in less than 30 minutes! This recipe is great for feeding a family, and the leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day. Let’s dive into this delicious meal, and don’t forget to read through for all the tips, substitutions, and variations you can try!

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What is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a rich and hearty dish made in a single pan. It combines ground beef, pasta, mozzarella cheese, and flavorful seasonings like garlic, onion, and Worcestershire sauce. This meal is perfect for when you're short on time but still want something satisfying and filling. The combination of savory beef and gooey cheese makes it a hit with both adults and kids. It's a comfort food classic that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Here’s a complete list of everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:

• 2 cups ziti pasta, cooked (see NOTES)
  • Ziti is the ideal pasta for this recipe because it holds the sauce well and creates a perfect bite with the ground beef and cheese.
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • Olive oil helps brown the beef and sauté the garlic and onion, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
• 1 pound ground beef
  • Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, or choose ground turkey for a leaner option.
• ½ teaspoon pepper
  • Adds a touch of heat to balance out the richness of the cheese and beef.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor and pairs beautifully with the ground beef and cheese.
• 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
  • For a little kick, add chili flakes. You can adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • This adds a savory depth of flavor and a slight tang that complements the richness of the ground beef.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • Tomato paste gives the dish a hint of acidity and a concentrated tomato flavor without making it too saucy.
• 1 onion, chopped
  • Onions add sweetness and texture, helping to build a flavorful base for the dish.
• ½ cup chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. It helps balance the richness of the cheese and beef.
• Salt to taste
  • Adjust according to your preference. Remember that some ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, may already add saltiness.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • The star ingredient! Melty mozzarella creates that irresistible cheesy pull and makes this dish incredibly comforting.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly versatile, so feel free to make it your own. Here are a few substitution ideas and variations:

• Pasta substitutions: If you don’t have ziti on hand, you can use any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even rotini. Each type of pasta brings a slightly different texture, so feel free to experiment.
• Meat options: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter option. You can also try sausage for added flavor.
• Cheese swaps: While mozzarella is perfect for its meltiness, you can substitute it with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable add-ins: Want to add more veggies? Try adding chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Gluten-free option: Simply swap the ziti pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this easy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet? Follow these simple steps to whip up a comforting meal in no time.

1. Cook the pasta: Begin by cooking 2 cups of ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook once it's mixed with the beef and cheese. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with ½ teaspoon of pepper and cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
4. Season and build the sauce: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and red chili flakes (if using). Let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Combine the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss it with the beef mixture until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta and beef mixture. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the cheese melt completely, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Garnish and serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Always cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the beef and cheese. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the skillet.
• Not draining excess fat: If your ground beef is very fatty, make sure to drain the excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
• Skipping the tomato paste: The tomato paste adds essential richness and flavor, so don't skip this step. It helps balance the savory beef and cheese.
• Using too much heat when melting the cheese: Keep the heat low when melting the cheese to prevent it from burning or becoming rubbery.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a casual, hearty meal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t serve it with flair. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

• In the skillet: For a rustic look, bring the skillet directly to the table and serve from it. The sight of gooey cheese bubbling in the skillet is mouthwatering!
• Portion it out: For individual servings, scoop the cheesy pasta into bowls or plates and top each portion with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This dish is filling on its own, but you can pair it with sides for a more balanced meal. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread on the side works perfectly. A side of steamed veggies or roasted broccoli can also add some greens to the plate.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

• Cheese pull effect: When serving, pull a portion of pasta to showcase the cheesy goodness stretching from the skillet.
• Herb garnish: Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil to brighten up the presentation. A few leaves on top will make the dish look vibrant and fresh.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips

• Grating your own cheese: For the best melt, grate mozzarella cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect how well it melts.
• Prepping in advance: You can cook the pasta and brown the ground beef in advance to save time. When you’re ready to make the dish, just combine the ingredients and melt the cheese.
• Storage and reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet? Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just allow it to cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Definitely! Cheddar, Gouda, or even cream cheese can work well in this recipe, depending on your taste preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian? You can! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey mozzarella cheese all cooked in one pan, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don't be afraid to make it your own with substitutions or additional veggies. Now that you have all the steps, tips, and tricks, it’s time to get cooking!

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