If you are craving comfort food that is both hearty and full of melty, irresistible flavor, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender pasta, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and rich, gooey cheddar cheese all in one skillet, this dish makes for a fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe hits all the marks for simplicity, soul-satisfying taste, and that inviting cheesy pull everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, staple ingredients is key here. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the savory base with ground beef, adding texture with pasta, or delivering that vibrant color and punch of flavor from the tomato sauce and seasonings.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: The foundation of the dish, providing hearty protein and rich flavor without excess fat.
- 2 cups short pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes catch the sauce perfectly, making every bite deliciously saucy.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The magic ingredient that melts into creamy, cheesy goodness.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed just right.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts the savory aroma and flavor complexity.
- 24 oz tomato sauce (jarred or homemade): Brings brightness and moisture to bind the dish together.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that layers herbs perfectly for that classic Italian touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a lovely richness without heaviness.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by chopping your onion and mincing the garlic—these fresh aromatics build a flavorful base. Measure out your pasta and cheddar cheese so everything’s ready to go. Having all your components prepped upfront makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your short pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. It’s important to not overcook the pasta here because it will finish cooking in the skillet with the sauce. Drain and set the pasta aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 3: Sauté Onions & Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant—this takes roughly 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn. These steps infuse the oil with wonderful flavor that will carry through the dish.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef
Turn the heat up just a notch before adding your ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until nicely browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. This caramelization adds depth and texture, making every bite unforgettable. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.
Step 5: Mix Sauce & Seasonings
Pour the tomato sauce into the browned beef mixture, then sprinkle in your Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly. The result is a luscious, savory coating that hugs each piece of pasta.
Step 6: Combine Pasta & Cheese
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Gently stir everything together over low heat until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce, usually about 3 to 4 minutes. This finishing step transforms the dish into cheesy perfection—gooey, comforting, and utterly satisfying.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a pop of vibrant color and enhance the flavor with their brightness. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a pleasant kick for those who like a little heat. Grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream also work beautifully as finishing touches.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette, which helps balance the richness. Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are perfect companions for scooping up every last bit of cheesy sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans create a well-rounded plate with some fresh crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins, topped with a little extra cheese and broiled until golden. You could also layer it in a casserole dish and bake for a bubbly, gratin-style presentation that’s perfect for potlucks or family dinners. These ideas elevate the dish from simple to spectacular effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the meal, let the skillet cool completely before transferring leftovers into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an ideal next-day lunch or quick dinner plan.
Freezing
This dish freezes quite well, which is great news for meal prep. Portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Keep in mind that fresh herbs and cheese taste best when added fresh after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating. Adding a splash of water, broth, or extra tomato sauce during reheating helps restore the creamy texture and keeps the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives that classic sharpness and melt, you can experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness, Monterey Jack for creaminess, or a blend of cheeses to suit your preference.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to keep the texture and flavor interesting while making it meat-free.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely. Short pasta shapes work best to hold the sauce, but feel free to use your favorites such as fusilli, farfalle, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust cooking times as necessary so the pasta stays perfectly al dente.
How spicy is the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe?
The recipe itself is mild, which is great for all ages and preferences. You can easily add heat by sprinkling in crushed red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy some spice.
What can I do if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own quick blend using dried basil, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of rosemary. This will bring the same herby essence that Italian seasoning offers.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the cozy comfort of this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe to brighten up any meal time. It’s straightforward to make, packed with flavor, and always hits the spot whether you’re feeding family or friends. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find a new favorite go-to that feels like a kitchen hug on a busy day.
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: Italian-American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish delivers classic flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat & Dairy
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta & Grains
- 2 cups short pasta (like penne or rotini)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry & Seasonings
- 24 oz tomato sauce (jarred or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out the pasta and shredded cheddar cheese so everything is ready to go.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Onions & Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, around 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown Ground Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until it is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Mix Sauce & Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.
- Combine Pasta & Cheese: Add the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir thoroughly until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy, cooking for another 3-4 minutes on low heat.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to adapt the dish for dietary needs.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Adding fresh basil or parsley on top before serving adds freshness and color.
