Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet

Save This Recipe:

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet, a one-pan wonder that’s hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and rich tomato sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the whole family to the dinner table in no time.

A One-Pan Cheesy Delight

There’s nothing better than a meal that’s easy to make, tastes amazing, and leaves you with minimal cleanup. This Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet checks all those boxes! By cooking everything in a single skillet, the flavors meld beautifully while saving you time and effort.

From the savory, seasoned beef to the tender pasta coated in a rich tomato sauce and gooey, melted cheese, every bite is a comforting treat. It’s perfect for weeknights when you need something quick, or as a cozy meal to unwind after a long day.

This recipe is also versatile—feel free to add your favorite veggies, swap in a different cheese, or experiment with seasonings. No matter how you customize it, the result is always delicious!

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet

To make this flavorful and comforting one-pan dish, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that come together for the perfect bite:

• Ground Beef – Lean ground beef works best, but you can use any type. It adds a savory, hearty flavor to the dish.
• Pasta – Use short pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli, as they hold the sauce and cheese beautifully.
• Onion – Finely chopped onion brings depth and aroma to the dish.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the overall flavor with its rich, savory kick.
• Tomato Sauce – A smooth tomato sauce forms the base for the rich, flavorful pasta coating.
• Beef Broth – Cooking the pasta in broth adds flavor and allows it to absorb all the delicious juices.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the dish with a classic Italian flavor.
• Shredded Cheese – Use mozzarella or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a melty, gooey topping.
• Salt and Pepper – To season the beef and pasta perfectly.
• Olive Oil – For browning the beef and onion.

How to Make Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare in just a few steps. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Step 2:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat for a lighter dish. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for added flavor.

Step 3:
Pour the tomato sauce and beef broth into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4:
Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5:
Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes, until bubbly and gooey.

Step 6:
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How Long to Cook Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet

The cooking time for this dish is quick and straightforward, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Browning the Beef – Takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the heat and the amount of beef.
• Cooking the Pasta – Simmer the uncooked pasta in the sauce and broth for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
• Melting the Cheese – Once the pasta is cooked, add the shredded cheese and let it melt for 2-3 minutes with the lid on.

In total, you’ll need about 20-25 minutes of active cooking time for this dish, making it a speedy meal with maximum flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (although it’s so good, there might not be!), this Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet stores beautifully and reheats well.

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
• Freezer – This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet

Follow these helpful tips to make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the Right Pasta – Short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne works best because it holds the sauce and cheese well. Avoid long, thin noodles like spaghetti for this recipe.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Simmer the pasta just until tender. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.
• Adjust the Liquid – If the pasta absorbs the sauce too quickly, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist until the pasta finishes cooking.
• Use Quality Cheese – Shred your own cheese for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
• Add Veggies – Boost the nutrition by stirring in spinach, peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms during the cooking process.
• Spice It Up – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage are great substitutes for ground beef.

2. What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. Adjust the seasoning to ensure the dish remains flavorful.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.

4. What cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella is a great choice for its melty texture, but you can mix it with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone for added flavor.

Print