Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe

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If you’re craving a comforting dinner that brings together savory, saucy, and cheesy in one satisfying bite, then this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe is your new best friend. This dish marries hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and ooey-gooey melted cheese all in a single skillet, delivering a warm hug of flavor with every forkful. It’s fast, fuss-free, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something cozy without the mess or hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, while keeping the prep straightforward. From the richness of the ground beef to the vibrant punch of fresh herbs, these essentials come together beautifully without any complicated extras.

• 1 lb. ground beef: Provides the savory, meaty foundation that makes this skillet hearty and satisfying.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef evenly and keeps everything from sticking to the pan.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed alongside garlic.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Brings a subtle acidity and juiciness to balance the richness.
• 1 cup beef broth: Used as the cooking liquid, it infuses the pasta with meaty flavor as it simmers.
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or elbow macaroni work best): The hearty pasta shape soaks up the savory sauce perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds aromatic herbs that tie all the flavors together.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella): Melts into luscious, creamy goodness that coats every bite.
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness and a pop of color to finish.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil’s shimmering, add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Browning the beef locks in flavor, setting the stage for the dish’s rich taste.

Step 2: Soften Aromatics

Once your beef is cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic directly to the skillet. Sauté everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant. These aromatics give the dish a savory base that’s simply irresistible.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and pour in the beef broth. This combination creates a flavorful cooking liquid that will infuse the pasta while it cooks. The tomatoes add a subtle brightness, balancing out the richness of the beef and cheese.

Step 4: Incorporate Pasta and Seasonings

Add your uncooked pasta to the skillet along with the Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to ensure the pasta is submerged evenly in the broth. This is key because the pasta will absorb all those delicious flavors as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper now, and you can adjust later.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the pan and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This lets the pasta cook through while soaking up the savory broth mixture. You’ll notice the liquid mostly absorbs, leaving the pasta tender and bursting with flavor. This simmering step is where the magic happens.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Once the pasta is perfectly tender, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the skillet contents. Cover again for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt into a gooey, comforting layer. The melted cheese brings everything together, adding that classic creamy texture we all crave in comfort food.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Give the skillet a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top. These herbs not only brighten the dish visually but add a lovely herbal note that balances the richness perfectly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the hot, cheesy pasta into bowls or plates right from the skillet. You’re ready to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal with minimal cleanup. The warmth and satisfaction packed into this dish make every bite feel like a cozy hug.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, basil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate your presentation and flavor profile. These simple garnishes add brightness and a touch of color, making your dish feel extra special before you even take the first bite.

Side Dishes

This skillet stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf also complement the cheesy goodness and help scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style presentation, serve it straight from the skillet placed on the table, encouraging everyone to serve themselves. Alternatively, plate it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of pesto on top for a gourmet twist. You can even add a fried egg or sliced avocado to boost the comfort factor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe has cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay delicious for up to three days, making great next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers for longer storage. Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave them with a splash of broth or water to keep the pasta moist and the cheese melty. Stir occasionally to heat everything through evenly, bringing back that comforting, fresh-from-the-stove taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or elbow macaroni work best because they hold the sauce well, you can substitute with rotini, shells, or even small fusilli. Just keep an eye on cooking time as pasta shapes absorb liquid differently.

Is ground turkey or chicken a good substitute for ground beef in this skillet?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, but they tend to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit more olive oil to prevent sticking and boost flavor. Adjust seasonings accordingly to taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and you’ll still get a rich, comforting meal.

What type of cheese works best for melting?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices because they melt beautifully and have mild flavors that complement the beef and tomatoes. For extra richness, you can combine both or try a blend with Monterey Jack or provolone.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings don’t contain gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a flexible and hearty option.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Food Classic Recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together to create pure comfort in a single dish. It’s perfect for when you want a warm, satisfying meal that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen or a mountain of dishes to wash. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to weeknight favorites that everyone will ask for again and again.

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