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Homemade Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe photo

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is SO EASY! A one-pan meal with juicy beef, tender pasta, and melty cheddar cheese perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chef’s knife and cutting board
  • Cheese Grater
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef lean and flavorful
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes undrained
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning a blend of herbs
  • 8 ounces pasta rotini or penne recommended
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese the star ingredient for cheesy goodness
  • to taste salt and pepper essential seasoning
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • 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, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and gooey texture.
  • Keep an eye on the pasta while cooking to avoid mushiness; add extra broth if needed.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy, one pan, Weeknight