If you’re craving a comforting and incredibly satisfying dinner, this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender ziti pasta swimming in a savory, rich blend of ground beef and tomato paste, infused with garlic and just the right kick of chili flakes, all topped with gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. Every bite delivers a beautiful hug of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly in one skillet. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, yet tastes like a dish you’ve lovingly slow-cooked for hours. Prepare to fall in love with this delicious, hearty, and cheesy meal that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of simple but essential ingredients that pack a punch. Each element plays an important role, from the tender pasta that carries all the flavors to the fresh parsley that adds brightness. Let’s dive into the tasty stuff you’ll need:
- Cooked pasta (2 cups ziti): Opt for al dente to maintain perfect bite and soak up that cheesy sauce beautifully.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps brown the beef evenly.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty protein base that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a warm, mild heat to balance the savory notes.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Garlic’s aromatic punch elevates every bite.
- Crushed red chili flakes (1 teaspoon, optional): For anyone who loves a subtle spicy kick.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens the umami and adds a tangy complexity.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrated tomato flavor that gives the sauce its rich, robust base.
- Onion (1, chopped): Brings sweetness and texture to the savory blend.
- Chopped parsley (1/2 cup plus more for garnish): Fresh herbaceous brightness that lightens up the dish.
- Salt (to taste): Essential to bring all the flavors together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): The star that makes this recipe irresistibly cheesy and gooey.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Perfect Your Pasta
Start by cooking your ziti pasta according to the package instructions but subtract one minute to keep it nice and firm — you want it al dente. Don’t forget to save half a cup of pasta water before draining; that starchy goodness will help bring your sauce and pasta together with silky perfection.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat one tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the ground beef and break it apart gently with your spoon. Cook for about 2 minutes until it starts browning, then reduce the heat to medium. This step seals in flavor and sets the foundation for the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Next, toss in your minced garlic, chopped onion, crunchy and fragrant chili flakes if you want some heat, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Add the chopped parsley and pour in that reserved pasta water — this will help loosen the mixture and create a luscious, saucy consistency. Let everything simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is tender and the flavors meld into one glorious mix.
Step 4: Combine and Melt the Cheese
Now, stir your al dente ziti right into the skillet’s meaty sauce. Spread about one cup of shredded mozzarella evenly across the top, then cover the skillet with a lid. In just 2 to 3 minutes, the cheese will melt into an ooey-gooey blanket. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and you’re ready to serve up a steaming hot, cheesy delight.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor. You can also add a drizzle of good quality olive oil or some freshly grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy layer. A few chili flakes on top can give a pleasant visual hint of spice.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderful on its own, but consider pairing it with a simple green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread also complements the skillet perfectly, allowing you to scoop up every cheesy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skillet dish in individual mini cast iron skillets for a cozy, rustic vibe. You could also stuff the cheesy beef mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers or scoop it onto baked sweet potatoes for a colorful presentation and contrasting flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish holds up well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as tasty the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To freeze, skip the cheese topping; add it fresh when reheating for the best texture and melt.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to warm through without drying out. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems thick. For a quick fix, the microwave works too — just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti is ideal for holding onto the sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even rotini would work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and add extra seasoning for depth. The cheese and sauce will still deliver plenty of comforting flavor.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add more crushed red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the beef. Fresh chopped jalapeños can also bring in a fresh heat dimension.
What cheese alternatives can I use?
Mozzarella is wonderfully melty, but provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar can add a new twist. Mixing cheeses often makes the dish even more delicious.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the beef mixture a day in advance and assemble just before serving. This makes the meal super quick on busy nights while still tasting fresh and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its quick prep, comforting tastes, and irresistible cheesy finish make it an instant favorite. Give it a go, and watch this become your go-to recipe for busy evenings or anytime you crave hearty comfort food!
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender ground beef simmered with aromatic garlic, onions, and a touch of chili flakes, combined with al dente ziti pasta and topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it offers a rich, savory flavor with a creamy cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups ziti pasta, cooked (see NOTES)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, subtracting 1 minute from the recommended cooking time. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta; do not rinse to retain the starches that help thicken the sauce.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 2 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it begins to brown. Then reduce the heat to medium.
- Simmer the Meat Mixture: Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, optional chili flakes, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, chopped parsley, and 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (or plain water if preferred). Stir everything together and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Combine Pasta and Melt Cheese: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture and toss to combine. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes. Garnish with additional parsley before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- For the best texture, cook pasta slightly less than package instructions to keep it firm but tender.
- Reserving pasta water helps to create a velvety sauce by utilizing the starches.
- Use fresh parsley for garnish to brighten the dish both visually and in flavor.
- Adjust chili flakes depending on your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for variations.
