Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

If you’re on the hunt for a satisfying one-pan meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table, look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. It’s a delightful combination of tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese, all cooked together in one skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only easy to whip up but also promises to be a hit with the whole family. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in just one skillet.
• Quick Preparation: In just about 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious and hearty meal.
• Comfort Food: The combination of ground beef and melted cheddar cheese creates a warm, comforting dish.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your family’s tastes by adding vegetables or spices.
• Leftovers Galore: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying the next day.

The Ingredient Lineup

To make this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you begin cooking, ensure you have the following tools:

• Large skillet: A deep skillet will help you combine all ingredients easily.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
• Pasta pot: To cook the penne pasta separately.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
• Knife and cutting board: To chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Method: Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Ready to dive into this delicious dish? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and the beef broth. Stir to combine. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!

Make It Fit Your Plan

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is versatile and can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences:

• Veggie Boost: Add in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute penne pasta with cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack, depending on your taste.

Troubleshooting Tips

For a perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, here are some handy tips:

• If your skillet seems too dry, add a splash more beef broth to moisten the mixture.
• To avoid overcooking the pasta, make sure to check it a minute or two before the package directions suggest.
• For an even creamier texture, mix in a little cream cheese or sour cream just before serving.
• If the cheese isn’t melting properly, cover the skillet for a few minutes to help it along.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is easy to store and reheat:

Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of beef broth to loosen it up if it seems dry.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ground beef mixture ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, cook the pasta, combine everything, and add the cheese.

What can I serve with this dish?

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you love quick and easy recipes like this one, check out these links for more weeknight inspirations:

• Quick Chicken Stir-Fry
• 30-Minute Shrimp Tacos
• Easy Vegetable Fried Rice
• Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Bring It to the Table

Gather your family around the table and serve this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with pride. This dish not only satisfies hungry bellies but also brings a sense of togetherness to your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this pasta skillet is sure to impress. So, grab your forks and dig in—deliciousness awaits!

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