Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipes are like a warm hug for your taste buds, combining savory beef, gooey cheese, and comforting pasta in one delightful dish. easy one-pan dinner option The aroma wafting from the skillet is enough to make anyone weak in the knees and draw them into the kitchen faster than you can say “dinner’s ready.” light and healthy soup option. For more inspiration, check out this Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; it was a chaotic weeknight, and I needed something that would please everyone. As I stirred the bubbling pot, my kids’ eyes lit up with excitement—when they heard “cheesy,” they were sold! Now, this recipe has become our go-to meal for busy evenings or when we want to feel cozy without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is simple to whip up on any weeknight
- The rich flavors meld together beautifully for a comforting experience
- With its golden cheese topping, this dish is visually appealing and sure to impress family and friends
- Perfect for customizing with your favorite veggies or spices based on your pantry supply
I still chuckle remembering my son’s dramatic “this is the best thing ever” face as he devoured his second helping.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option while still getting that rich flavor.
Pasta: Any short pasta works well; I prefer penne or rotini for their sauce-hugging abilities.
Cheddar Cheese: Shred fresh cheddar for a melty goodness that brings everything together deliciously.
Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth when sautéed until translucent.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic truly elevates the flavor profile, giving it a fragrant kick.
Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous; both work great.
Seasonings: Don’t forget salt, pepper, and Italian herbs (like oregano) to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering everything you need—chop your onion and garlic while measuring out your pasta and cheese. Getting organized makes cooking smoother.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then mix in minced garlic until fragrant.
Add Ground Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula—about 6-8 minutes—is ideal for perfect texture.
Combine Sauce with Meat Mixture: Pour in your tomato sauce along with seasonings. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes so flavors can mingle.
Add Pasta & Cheese : Toss in the cooked pasta followed by shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until creamy and gooey; let it cook for another 3-4 minutes on low heat.
With each step of this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipe, you’ll find yourself more excited about what’s to come—deliciousness awaits! delicious burrito recipe. grilled chicken with tropical flavors.
Now grab your fork because you’re ready to dive into this cheesy marvel that promises to satisfy your hunger while putting smiles on faces around your dinner table!
You Must Know
- Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights
- With minimal prep and cooking time, you can create a hearty meal that will have everyone asking for seconds
- The combination of gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta is irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then add your pasta and sauce while simmering everything together. This method ensures even cooking and blends the flavors beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add seasonal veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect combination.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste as you cook; season gradually to avoid overpowering flavors
- When cooking pasta, remember to salt the water generously for better flavor absorption
- Let your skillet sit off heat for a few minutes before serving; this helps thicken the sauce slightly
Sharing this recipe with friends brought unexpected joy when my kids declared it their favorite meal ever! They even offered to help with dinner prep, which was a win-win moment for me.
FAQ
Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet recipes ahead of time?
For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta recipe.
Yes, prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Mozzarella and cheddar provide great flavor and melt beautifully into the dish.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta and lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier version.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the ultimate comfort food, perfectly blending savory ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and tender pasta into a one-pot wonder. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures that will have your family cheering for seconds. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s customizable to fit your pantry staples and sure to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups short pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz tomato sauce (jarred or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop onion and garlic; measure out pasta and cheese.
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta, cook until al dente (8-10 minutes), drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions & Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic for an additional minute.
- Brown Ground Beef: Increase heat slightly, add ground beef; cook until browned (6-8 minutes), breaking apart with a spatula.
- Mix Sauce & Seasonings: Pour in tomato sauce and seasonings; stir well and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta & Cheese: Add cooked pasta and shredded cheese; mix until creamy, cooking for another 3-4 minutes on low heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg