Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:15:40.532Z

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a beloved family dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. The combination of ground beef and pasta, simmered in a flavorful sauce, makes it a go-to for any busy household.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just one skillet
Packed with protein and flavor
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping

      

A Hearty Meal in One Pan

The Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is an ideal solution for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence. This dish combines the richness of beef with the comforting texture of pasta, making it a satisfying choice for any family meal. The best part? It all comes together in just one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. You can easily whip up this recipe in under 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.

In addition to being quick to prepare, this skillet dish is versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the protein. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives for a lighter option, while adding bell peppers or spinach can enhance the nutritional value. With so many possibilities, this recipe can easily become a regular in your weekly rotation.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a meal that can be prepared in advance, this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet fits the bill perfectly. Not only does it taste great fresh, but it also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunch leftovers. Simply store portions in airtight containers in the fridge, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go for days. The flavors even improve after sitting, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

When meal prepping, consider portioning the dish into individual servings. This makes it easy to grab a healthy meal on busy days or when you're short on time. You can also experiment with different toppings, such as fresh herbs or extra cheese, to keep each serving exciting. This way, you can enjoy a hearty, homemade meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.

Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

One of the standout features of this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is its universal appeal. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. The cheesy topping adds an element of indulgence, making it a dish that feels special but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends, this skillet dish is sure to impress.

Moreover, you can easily scale this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Doubling the ingredients is straightforward, and it can be cooked in the same skillet without any fuss. This makes it a go-to recipe for potlucks or large family dinners. Serve it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread, and you have a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 lb ground beef
8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Garnishes

Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese

Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large skillet, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for a couple of minutes before serving.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.

Storage Tips

To store any leftovers from your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps to preserve the flavors and texture of the dish. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, or you can freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to label the containers with the date so that you can keep track of freshness.

When reheating, you can use the microwave for quick meals, but for the best results, heat it on the stovetop over medium heat. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help prevent it from drying out during the reheating process, ensuring every bite remains flavorful and satisfying.

Variations to Try

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix. If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream before serving. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, allowing you to incorporate seasonal vegetables or leftover items from your fridge.

If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also load it up with your choice of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers, making it a colorful and nutritious meal option.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with a side salad or some garlic bread. A simple mixed greens salad topped with your favorite dressing can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet. Garlic bread is another popular choice, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

You can also elevate the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also add layers of flavor that complement the main dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini works great in this dish.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet meal in an airtight container for up to 3 months.