If you are looking for the ultimate comfort food that brings together hearty flavors and cheesy goodness in one easy dish, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheddar cheese into a warm, satisfying skillet meal that will quickly become a favorite on your dinner rotation. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend feast, this recipe is simple to make yet big on flavor, making it perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the juicy, flavorful ground beef to the creamy cheddar that ties everything together. The pasta provides that comforting, chewy texture, while the onion and garlic infuse the skillet with aromatic depth. You’ll love how these familiar ingredients create a dish that is both homey and exciting.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: The star protein adding rich, meaty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 2 cups short pasta (penne or rotini): Perfect for holding sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides gooey, melty creaminess throughout the dish.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a subtle aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers pungent, savory depth that elevates the overall flavor.
- 24 oz tomato sauce: The bright, tangy heart of the skillet’s sauce.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings Mediterranean warmth and herbs to every mouthful.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides the perfect cooking medium for sautéing onions and browning beef.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by chopping your onion and mincing the garlic so everything is ready to go once you start cooking. Measure out the pasta and shred the cheddar cheese if it’s not pre-shredded. Having all your ingredients prepped makes the cooking flow smoothly and efficiently.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente, around 8 to 10 minutes. This ensures your pasta will hold up well in the skillet without becoming mushy. Drain and set aside—it will finish cooking in the sauce shortly.
Step 3: Sauté Onions & Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and sweet. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, releasing that irresistible aroma that makes your kitchen feel cozy.
Step 4: Brown Ground Beef
Turn up the heat slightly, add the ground beef to the skillet, and cook until browned and cooked through—about 6 to 8 minutes. Be sure to break up the meat with a spatula so it cooks evenly and creates little crumbles packed with flavor.
Step 5: Mix Sauce & Seasonings
Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully, resulting in a rich and tangy sauce that clings to the beef and pasta.
Step 6: Combine Pasta & Cheese
Add the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet, mixing everything gently until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy and irresistible. Let it cook on low heat for another 3 to 4 minutes to marry all the flavors and textures perfectly.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Once your skillet is ready, consider topping it with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of extra cheddar or Parmesan can add an indulgent layer of cheesiness, while a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can bring some welcome heat for those who enjoy a little kick.
Side Dishes
This hearty skillet pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its richness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the flavors, while garlic bread or a warm baguette offers an extra carb bonus to soak up any remaining sauce. Steamed or roasted veggies, like broccoli or green beans, also add a nice textural contrast and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe straight in individual mini skillets or ovenproof dishes, making each plate feel special and restaurant-worthy. You can also layer it in a casserole dish and top with extra cheese then broil for a golden crust that looks stunning and tastes decadent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making it a convenient and delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this comfort food anytime without re-cooking, it freezes well. Place cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label it so you remember this gem in your freezer stash.
Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit thick to restore that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic and melty, feel free to swap it for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for varied flavor and texture. Just pick ones that melt smoothly to keep that deliciously creamy consistency.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and lentils to maintain the meaty texture and protein. The sauce and cheese remain the same—just as comforting and tasty.
What pasta works best in this recipe?
Short, sturdy pastas like penne, rotini, or rigatoni are ideal because they hold onto the sauce well and grab that cheesy goodness in every bite. However, feel free to use whatever pasta you love or have on hand.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Many brands now offer excellent gluten-free penne or rotini that cooks just like traditional pasta, keeping the dish accessible for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes! Adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the sauté step works beautifully and boosts the nutritional value without overpowering the dish. Just cook them until tender before adding the beef and sauce.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, packed with familiar flavors that satisfy every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or inviting friends over, this recipe is sure to impress and warm hearts. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your all-time favorite meals!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy one-pan meal featuring lean ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheddar cheese, all simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce seasoned with Italian herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta
- 2 cups short pasta (like penne or rotini)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 24 oz tomato sauce (jarred or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out the pasta and shredded cheddar cheese to have everything ready before cooking.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the short pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to be added later.
- Sauté Onions & Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing their aroma.
- Brown Ground Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until browned throughout, breaking it apart with a spatula, which should take 6-8 minutes.
- Mix Sauce & Seasonings: Pour the tomato sauce into the browned beef mixture. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything well and lower the heat to simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta & Cheese: Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy. Cook on low heat for another 3-4 minutes before serving to ensure everything is heated through.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and make the dish healthier.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions.
- Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
- To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat pasta.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
