Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy dinner that comes together in one pan, look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that requires minimal effort, yet delivers maximum flavor. With juicy ground beef, sautéed veggies, tender pasta, and a blanket of melty cheddar cheese, this skillet recipe is the kind of dish everyone will ask for again and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish strikes the perfect balance between hearty and easy. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your dinner rotation.

Why Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is Worth Your Time

This dish combines simple ingredients into a delightful one-pan wonder that saves time on cleanup without sacrificing flavor. The ground beef is cooked with aromatic onions, garlic, and bell peppers, then simmered with diced tomatoes and savory beef broth to create a rich sauce. Toss in your pasta to cook right in the skillet, soaking up all those delicious juices. Finally, a generous layer of cheddar cheese melts over the entire skillet, adding creamy, gooey goodness that ties everything together. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something satisfying but fuss-free.

Plus, it’s versatile — you can swap in different pasta shapes or cheese varieties to suit your taste. And if you love dishes like Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet or crave comforting casseroles like The Best Beef Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole, this skillet recipe fits right into your comfort food lineup.

What Goes In

• 1 pound ground beef – lean and flavorful
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing
• 1 onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – for that essential savory punch
• 1 bell pepper, diced – adds color and crunch
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained – provides acidity and moisture
• 2 cups beef broth – to cook the pasta and create a rich sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for extra aroma
• 8 ounces pasta (rotini or penne recommended) – holds the sauce well
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – the star ingredient for cheesy goodness
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped – for a bright garnish

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large skillet or sauté pan – at least 10 inches to hold all ingredients comfortably
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
• Chef’s knife and cutting board – to prep veggies
• Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheddar)
• Colander (optional) – if you prefer to drain pasta before adding cheese

Cook Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Like This

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with your spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasoning

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta directly into the skillet. Stir well to submerge the pasta in the liquid. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the pasta cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it’s tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover again and let it sit on low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible layer.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, straight from the skillet for easy cleanup and maximum comfort.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

• Swap bell peppers for zucchini or summer squash in the warmer months.
• Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale near the end of cooking for extra greens.
• Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky flavor twist.
• In cooler months, add chopped mushrooms or a pinch of smoked paprika for warmth.

Things That Go Wrong

• Pasta turning mushy – Make sure to keep an eye on the liquid level and avoid overcooking. Add a little extra broth if it starts drying out too soon.
• Cheese not melting properly – Covering the skillet after adding cheese helps it melt evenly. Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for best melting results.
• Burnt bottom – Stir occasionally once the pasta is added to prevent sticking or burning on the skillet’s surface.
• Under-seasoned – Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to bring out the full flavor.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the pasta and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep it creamy. This skillet is also freezer-friendly—just cool completely before freezing in portioned containers. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

Common Qs About Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini or penne work great because their shape holds onto the sauce, you can use any short pasta like shells, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time if needed based on the pasta’s package instructions.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and consider adding extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty and flavorful.

What cheese works best for this skillet?

Cheddar cheese is classic for its sharp flavor and great melting quality, but you can also experiment with mozzarella for a milder, gooey texture or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.

Can I prepare this in advance and reheat later?

Definitely. This recipe is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of broth or water. You can also freeze individual portions for longer storage. Just thaw overnight before warming up.

Keep Cooking

• For another hearty pasta skillet, try the Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet with its bold flavors.
• If you love casseroles, don’t miss The Best Beef Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole for a comforting baked option.
• Craving bacon in your pasta? The Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake delivers smoky, cheesy goodness.

Final Thoughts

The Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is an all-in-one meal that combines ease, flavor, and comfort in every bite. It’s perfect for busy cooks who want a satisfying dinner without a long list of steps or dishes to wash afterward. The balance of savory beef, fresh veggies, tender pasta, and cheesy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser for families and meal preppers alike. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. When you want quick comfort food that doesn’t disappoint, this skillet is a go-to recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

Enjoy this delicious skillet dinner with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

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