If you’re looking for a cozy, one-pan dinner that’s both simple and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is your answer. With delightful layers of cheesy goodness and the robust flavors of seasoned ground beef, this dish is sure to become a weekday favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Cleanup: With only one skillet required, say goodbye to piles of dishes.
- Quick and Filling: Ready in just 25 minutes, this meal satisfies even the hungriest family members.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the chili flakes to suit your taste for heat.
- Cheesy Delight: Every bite is packed with gooey mozzarella that tantalizes the taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet are straightforward yet essential. Each one brings a unique element that contributes to the savory richness of this dish.
- 2 cups ziti pasta: Cooked just shy of perfect for that al dente bite.
- 1 tbs extra-virgin olive oil: A dash of this elevates the sautéing process and infuses richness.
- 1 lb ground beef: The heart of our skillet, delivering hearty protein.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Provides gentle heat and depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aroma and punchy flavor.
- 1 tsp crushed red chili flakes: Optional, for adding a kick of heat.
- 1 tbs Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami depth.
- 2 tbs tomato paste: Brings a sweet, concentrated tomato flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: For a subtly sweet and savory base.
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley: Not only for garnish but also for a fresh, herbal note.
- Salt: To balance all the flavors and enhance the taste.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella: The star topping, creating that irresistible cheesy texture.
Variations
This dish is delightfully customizable. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or simply mixing things up, here are some exciting variations to explore.
- Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use a plant-based meat substitute and add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy experience.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the ziti pasta according to the package instructions, but make sure to undercook by just a minute to keep it perfectly al dente. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned. This should take about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and season with salt and pepper. Stir in minced garlic, chopped onions, and chili flakes for a fragrant, spicy kick followed by Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste.
Step 4: Simmer for Flavor
Add the reserved pasta water and simmer the mixture until the meat becomes tender and the flavors meld together beautifully, taking about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked pasta and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix everything well, ensuring the cheese starts to melt into the beef.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Finally, top the pasta with the remaining cheese, allowing it to melt under the cover of a lid. Garnish with additional parsley and get ready to serve!
Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
- Perfect Pasta Texture: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. It helps bind the sauce and pasta beautifully.
- Enhance the Flavor: Let the onions sauté until translucent before adding other ingredients to deepen the flavor profile.
- Cheese Melting Magic: Covering the skillet allows the cheese to melt evenly and melds the dish into a cohesive array of flavors.
- Herbaceous Finish: Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of fresh flavor and color.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Garnishes
A light sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of Parmesan can add the perfect finishing touch to your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, enhancing its visual appeal and providing a subtle extra layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your skillet with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or rustic garlic bread to mop up the cheesy goodness, ensuring a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, homey vibe, or portion it into individual ramekins for an elegant plated dinner. Either presentation will charm your dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They stay fresh for up to three days, always delivering the same delightful cheesy goodness.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly! Portion it out and freeze in sealed containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to one month, making sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to regain the original creamy consistency.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti is recommended for its ability to hold sauce, any short pasta like rigatoni or penne works well.
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Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?
While not essential, Worcestershire sauce adds a layer of depth. You can substitute with soy sauce if preferred.
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Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes, prepare it as directed, cool completely, and refrigerate. Reheat gently and enjoy within two days for the best texture.
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What’s the best method to prevent the pasta from sticking?
Ensuring the pasta is slightly undercooked and reserving some pasta water to add moisture can help prevent any sticking when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Ready to warm hearts and fill bellies? This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is not just a meal—it’s a delightful experience waiting to be shared. So gather around, and let this savory sensation bring joy to your table!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Skillet Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and cheesy ground beef pasta skillet that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Combining tender cooked pasta with flavorful seasoned ground beef, melted mozzarella, and fresh parsley, this dish offers a satisfying blend of savory, spicy, and cheesy goodness in one skillet.
Ingredients
Cooked Pasta
2 cups ziti pasta, cooked (see NOTES)Main Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil1 pound ground beef
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
Salt to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, subtracting 1 minute from the cooking time for optimal texture. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta without rinsing to keep the starches for the sauce.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. When hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, for about 2 minutes until it starts to brown. Reduce heat to medium.
- Season and Simmer: Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, chili flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, chopped parsley, and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water or plain water if preferred. Stir to combine and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the meat is tender and flavors meld.
- Add Pasta and Cheese: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top, then cover with a lid to melt the cheese, about 2-3 minutes. Garnish with additional parsley before serving.
Notes
- Leftover cooked pasta works best; if fresh, cook as per package instructions.
- Chili flakes are optional and can be adjusted for heat preference.
- You can substitute other types of pasta depending on your preference.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream when mixing the pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
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