Description
Creamy, hearty cheesy ground beef pasta skillet brings comfort directly to dinner tables with rich, melted cheese and perfectly seasoned beef. Bold flavors and quick preparation make this skillet a reliable meal you’ll crave on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquid and Seasonings:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (375°F), introducing finely diced onions and minced garlic, gently cooking until translucent and fragrant.
- Incorporate ground beef into the skillet, breaking apart the meat and sautéing until completely browned and no pink remains, carefully draining any accumulated grease.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, creating a rich sauce base, then season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Nestle uncooked pasta directly into the simmering sauce, ensuring each piece is submerged, then cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring intermittently to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat to low, sprinkle shredded cheese across the surface, gently folding until the cheese melts completely and integrates smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Remove from heat, allow to rest for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish and serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version that still packs amazing flavor.
- Choose whole wheat pasta to boost nutritional value and add extra fiber to the dish for a healthier twist.
- Control spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or using mild alternatives like paprika for sensitive palates.
- Quickly melt cheese by turning off heat and covering skillet for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth, creamy texture without overcooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 522 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 490 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg