Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

If you’re hunting for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a hug in a skillet, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is an absolute must-try. It brings together juicy seasoned beef, perfectly tender pasta, a medley of savory veggies, and a generous blanket of gooey, melted cheese—all in one pan. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, this dish transforms a handful of pantry staples into something truly cozy and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or craving a little cheesy indulgence on a lazy Sunday, this one-pot wonder absolutely delivers.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet lies in its straightforward, unfussy ingredients. Each one adds an important note—depth, creaminess, color, or a pop of freshness—that makes the finished skillet so crave-worthy. Here’s how every ingredient earns its spot.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a hearty flavor with just enough richness to coat every bite.
• Onion: Sautéed onion brings sweet, aromatic depth and a little extra texture to the skillet.
• Bell Pepper: A pop of green or red bell pepper adds color and a subtle sweetness that brightens the dish.
• Garlic: Don’t skip the minced garlic—it infuses every forkful with irresistible savory aroma.
• Pasta: Short shapes like rotini, penne, or shells work best, as they trap all that cheesy sauce.
• Crushed Tomatoes: A can of crushed tomatoes brings tangy richness and forms the backbone of the sauce.
• Beef Broth: Adds savory depth and helps cook the pasta right in the pan for maximum flavor absorption.
• Italian Seasoning: This simple blend delivers that classic herby warmth and complexity.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, yielding a blanket of golden, gooey perfection.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For extra stretch and creaminess that binds the skillet together.
• Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget to season as you go for a perfectly balanced finish.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional, but sprinkling parsley at the end adds freshness and a pop of color.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Veggies

Start by heating a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until it’s no longer pink. Sprinkle in the onion and bell pepper, cooking until the onion is translucent and the peppers have softened slightly. Toss in the garlic and let it release its fragrance—this foundation brings bold, savory flavor to every bite!

Step 2: Add the Pasta, Tomatoes, and Broth

Once the veggies are soft, stir in your uncooked pasta, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Leave no pasta piece uncovered by liquid! Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper, then stir everything together. This lets the pasta soak up all those layered flavors as it simmers, instead of just boiling in water.

Step 3: Simmer Until the Pasta Is Tender

Turn the heat down to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and let it bubble away for about 12–14 minutes. Give it a quick stir every so often to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom and the pasta cooks evenly in the saucy goodness. By the end, your noodles should be just right—tender but not mushy—with most of the liquid absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Cheesy!

This is where the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet really lives up to its name. Sprinkle both cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, then cover the skillet for another minute or two, allowing the cheese to melt into gooey, golden harmony. If you love a bubbly, browned cheese top, you can also pop the skillet under a broiler for a minute—just make sure your skillet is oven-safe!

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat, uncover, and give the bubbling skillet a moment to cool. If using, scatter fresh parsley on top for a touch of herbal freshness and vibrance. Scoop generous portions onto plates and get ready for satisfied smiles all around—the skillet’s aromas will have everyone at the table in record time.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Garnishes

Sprinkle a bit of chopped fresh parsley across the top for a lively burst of green. A dusting of extra grated cheese or even some sliced scallions can also add color and character to the finished Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. If you’d like a hint of spice, try a light pinch of red pepper flakes just before serving.

Side Dishes

This hearty skillet pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette or a tangy Italian dressing. Don’t forget a side of warm garlic bread or a basket of crusty rolls—both are perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy sauce and turning dinner into a real event.

Creative Ways to Present

If you love dinner with a little flair, consider serving your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet in shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a wedge of lemon on the side. Or, for a party, serve the skillet family-style at the table, letting guests scoop their own and build their plates with favorite toppings. For meal-prep magic, divide into single-serve containers right away—ideal for grab-and-go lunches!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet stores beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely, then scoop it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or a quick leftover dinner.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, this skillet is very freezer-friendly. Cool the pasta thoroughly, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and expect the cheese to hold up surprisingly well after freezing!

Reheating

To reheat, transfer desired portions into a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 60-second bursts, stirring in between until piping hot. For a crispier cheese finish, pop leftovers in an oven-safe dish and reheat at 350°F for about 15 minutes, topping with a little fresh cheese just before serving for extra melty goodness.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! Any bite-sized noodle will work beautifully in Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Penne, rotini, shells, or even whole wheat pasta are all fair game. Just watch the cook time—you may need to add an extra minute or two if your pasta is a bit larger or heartier.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

Feel like mixing it up? Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives all work well in this recipe. You may want to add a splash of oil or extra seasoning, since leaner meats have less fat and flavor than beef.

Is it necessary to cook the pasta separately?

Nope! The pasta cooks right in the skillet with the sauce, absorbing tons of flavor and saving you an extra pot to wash. It’s one of the things that makes Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet such a timesaver and flavor-booster.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely. For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with your veggies. You can also stir in a bit of hot sauce or use a pepper jack cheese for extra kick, making your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet perfectly tailored to your tastebuds.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the skillet?

Be sure to give the mixture a good stir several times as it simmers, especially during the first few minutes. Using a nonstick or well-seasoned cast iron pan can also help. If the pasta looks a bit dry before it’s cooked, add a splash more broth or water as needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a no-fuss, flavor-packed comfort meal, Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is proof that simple ingredients plus a little love can make weeknight dinners feel extra special. It’s a tried-and-true favorite that’s guaranteed to win hearts (and hungry stomachs). Start with just one skillet and see how often this cheesy classic ends up in your regular dinner rotation!

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