Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm bowl of cheesy pasta, especially when it’s cooked in one skillet, packed with savory ground beef, gooey mozzarella cheese, and the perfect touch of herbs and spices. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner or a home cook craving a satisfying and hearty meal, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is:

  • Fast and easy – ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Made in one skillet – fewer dishes, less mess.

  • Comfort food at its best – cheesy, hearty, and filling.

  • Budget-friendly – made with pantry staples.

  • Customizable – easy to sneak in veggies or switch up the cheese.

Let’s dive deep into how to make this delicious meal from scratch, including preparation tips, substitution options, and nutritional insights.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for a family-size skillet (serves 4–6):

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked ziti pasta (measured after cooking)

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15 preferred)

  • 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish

  • Salt to taste

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh basil

  • Grated Parmesan

  • A drizzle of olive oil

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan (with lid)

  • Large pot for boiling pasta

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Knife and cutting board

  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break this down into four simple stages:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your ziti (or any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini) and cook it 1 minute less than the package directions—this ensures it doesn’t overcook when mixed with the sauce.

Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. Don’t rinse the pasta! The starch on the pasta helps the sauce cling to it better.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Let it sear for about 2 minutes, allowing the bottom to brown slightly. This adds a delicious caramelized flavor.

Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chili flakes if using. Stir frequently for 3–4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in:

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • ½ cup chopped parsley

Pour in the reserved pasta water (or use plain water if needed). Let the mixture simmer on medium-low for about 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the sauce to slightly thicken.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. At this stage, the skillet should smell amazing!

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together gently so the pasta is fully coated in the savory meat sauce.

Next, stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, letting it melt into the mix. Then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup evenly over the top.

Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and allow the cheese to melt completely—this should take about 2–3 minutes. Once it’s melty and gooey, remove from heat and garnish with additional parsley or basil.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Nutritional Info

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

  • Servings: 4–6

Calories Per Serving: ~627 kcal

(Nutrition may vary based on specific brands and added garnishes.)

Make It Your Own: Customization Ideas

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to tailor it to your tastes or dietary needs:

1. Switch the Protein

  • Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

  • Italian sausage for a more robust flavor.

  • Meatless ground crumbles for a vegetarian option.

2. Add Vegetables

Boost the nutritional value and add texture:

  • Bell peppers

  • Mushrooms

  • Zucchini

  • Spinach (add in the last few minutes to wilt)

3. Try Different Cheeses

Mozzarella is mild and melty, but don’t be afraid to mix things up:

  • Cheddar for sharper flavor

  • Monterey Jack for creaminess

  • Pepper Jack for a spicy kick

  • A sprinkle of Parmesan for salty richness

4. Make it Creamier

Add ¼ cup of cream or sour cream along with the cheese for an ultra-creamy skillet.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.

  • To reheat on the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth and heat on medium, stirring occasionally.

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This is a standalone meal, but it pairs wonderfully with:

  • Garlic bread or breadsticks – for scooping up the cheesy goodness.

  • A green salad – something crisp to balance the richness.

  • Roasted or steamed veggies – broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove or in the oven with a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top.

Can I freeze this?

This pasta skillet freezes fairly well. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Is this kid-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s cheesy, mild (unless you add chili flakes), and fun to eat. You can even sneak in veggies!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes—penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni all work. Just avoid long noodles like spaghetti, which don’t mix as well in a skillet format.

Tips for Success

  • Use freshly shredded mozzarella rather than pre-shredded. It melts better and tastes fresher.

  • Cook pasta al dente, so it doesn’t get mushy when added to the sauce.

  • Don’t skip the pasta water. It adds starch, which helps the sauce cling to the noodles.

  • Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving so the cheese settles and everything comes together.

Final Thoughts

The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a prime example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something utterly delicious and comforting. With minimal prep, pantry staples, and just one pan, you get a meal that satisfies cravings and nourishes the soul. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or preparing lunch for the week, this dish is an easy win.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab that skillet, and get cooking! Once you try this recipe, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your meal rotation.

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