Looking for an easy, delicious, and hearty weeknight meal? This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the perfect recipe that combines flavorful ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese into one skillet for a dish the whole family will love. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will show you how to create a savory, comforting meal in no time. Keep reading to discover how to make this mouthwatering dish!
What is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a one-pan meal that brings together some of the best comfort food elements: pasta, ground beef, tomato sauce, and lots of cheese. It’s a rich and filling dish that requires minimal prep time and uses common pantry ingredients. The result is a cheesy, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.
Ingredients List for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
To make this cheesy, beefy skillet pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups ziti pasta (cooked) – You can substitute other types of pasta if needed. See below for variations.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil – Used to sauté the ground beef and give the dish a rich flavor.
- 1 lb ground beef – Adds protein and a savory, meaty taste to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon pepper – Adds a bit of spice and depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic infuses the meal with a pungent, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional) – Adds a slight kick of heat. You can leave this out if you prefer a milder dish.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the umami flavor of the beef and adds a bit of complexity to the dish.
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor and provides a rich base for the sauce.
- 1 onion (chopped) – Adds sweetness and texture to balance the richness of the beef.
- ½ cup chopped parsley (plus more for garnish) – A fresh herb that adds brightness and color.
- Salt (to taste) – Adjust according to your preference.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella – The star of the show! This cheese melts perfectly to create a gooey, delicious finish.
Substitutions and Variations
There are many ways to make this dish your own. Below are a few popular substitutions and variations:
- Pasta Substitutions: Don’t have ziti on hand? No problem! You can use penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni instead. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before adding it to the skillet.
- Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is classic for that gooey texture, you could also try using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Ground Meat Substitutions: Want to make it a little leaner? You can substitute ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef. Alternatively, for a plant-based option, try using ground soy or lentils.
- Spice Level Adjustments: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red chili flakes, or even a diced jalapeño for extra heat. To tone down the spice, omit the chili flakes altogether.
- Add Veggies: For an extra boost of nutrition, consider adding some diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the mix.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s dive into how to make this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Follow these instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

How to Cook Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Begin by cooking the ziti pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside once it's al dente. You can drizzle a little olive oil on the pasta to prevent it from sticking together.
Step 2: Sauté the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season the beef with salt and pepper, and continue to sauté until it’s browned all over (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
- Next, stir in the minced garlic, chopped onions, and red chili flakes (if using). Sauté these ingredients until the onions become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Worcestershire Sauce
- Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated. The tomato paste will give the dish a rich tomato base, while the Worcestershire sauce adds depth to the beef flavor. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes.
Step 5: Combine with Cooked Pasta
- Once your sauce is fragrant, stir in the cooked ziti pasta, making sure to evenly mix it with the beef and sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture cook together for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Add Cheese
- Now for the fun part! Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and parsley. Once everything is combined and the cheese has begun to melt, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt completely, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Finally, garnish your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with the remaining chopped parsley and serve hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce in the skillet.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so be sure to sauté it over medium heat and keep a close eye on it.
- Not draining the beef: Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet after browning the ground beef, as too much grease can make the dish too oily.
- Forgetting to season: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed to ensure the dish is flavorful.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present your dish can elevate it from a simple skillet meal to a stunning dinner. Here are some tips to impress your guests:
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Serve the skillet hot, straight from the stovetop. You can offer it with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad to complement the richness of the dish. For a family-style dinner, serve directly from the skillet, allowing everyone to scoop up their portion.
Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
- Skillet-to-Table: Use a cast-iron or enameled skillet to keep the dish warm longer and create a rustic presentation.
- Herb Garnish: Garnish generously with fresh parsley or even basil for an added touch of green.
- Cheese Topping: If you’re a cheese lover, you can broil the skillet for 2-3 minutes to get a crispy, golden-brown cheese crust before serving.
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by making the sauce and cooking the pasta in advance. Just store them separately, and combine and heat in the skillet before serving.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd or want to meal prep. This dish freezes well; store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes! You can substitute gluten-free pasta in this recipe without any issue. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions for the pasta you choose.
Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: To lighten the dish, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: You can reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the ultimate comfort food meal, perfect for when you need something easy, filling, and delicious. With a rich, flavorful combination of ground beef, melty mozzarella, and hearty pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with its flexibility in ingredients and easy one-pan cooking method, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Give it a try tonight—you won’t regret it!
PrintCheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan dish made with ground beef, ziti, mozzarella, and spices. It’s a delicious and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups ziti pasta, cooked (see Notes)
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ tsp pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp crushed red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 onion, chopped
- ½ cup chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- Cook ziti pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with pepper, and cook until browned.
- Add garlic, chili flakes, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well.
- Add chopped onion and parsley, cooking until onions are softened.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, mixing to combine with the beef mixture.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and cook until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with additional parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ziti with any pasta of choice.
- Adjust the chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Use other types of cheese, such as cheddar, for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
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