Description
A hearty and comforting Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet that combines tender ground beef simmered in a flavorful tomato and Worcestershire sauce mixture with perfectly cooked ziti pasta, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese and fresh parsley. This one-pan meal is quick to prepare, packed with savory flavors, and perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
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 Pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, subtracting 1 minute from the cooking time to ensure optimal texture. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta without rinsing, to keep the starches that help thicken the sauce.
- Brown Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. When hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 2 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it just starts to brown. Then reduce heat to medium.
- Season and Simmer Sauce: Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, crushed red chili flakes if using, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, chopped parsley, and the reserved 1/2 cup pasta water (or plain water if preferred). Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes until the meat is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Combine and Melt Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the beef mixture to coat evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with additional parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use ziti pasta or similar tubular pasta like penne for best results.
- Saving some pasta water helps create a saucier, more cohesive dish by loosening the meat mixture when combined.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the crushed red chili flakes.
- Do not rinse pasta after cooking to preserve starches that help thicken the sauce.
- For a different twist, swap mozzarella for cheddar or a cheese blend of your choice.
