If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty meal that comes together in a flash, then let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorites: Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet! This isn’t just any old pasta dish; it’s warm, creamy, and absolutely packed with flavor. I remember the first time I made it — it was one of those cold winter nights when all I wanted was something comforting. I whipped this up in just about 30 minutes, and my family devoured it with smiles all around. Now, this recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike!
What I love most about this dish is its ease and versatility. You can easily tweak it to suit your tastes, or use whatever you have on hand in your pantry. I often reminisce about how my kids would help me stir the pot (and sneak bites of the cheesy goodness!) as I try to juggle work and the chaos of daily life. So, let’s dig into what makes this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet such a favorite in my kitchen!
What’s in Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?
Pasta: I prefer using elbow macaroni or rotini for this dish, as their shapes capture the cheesy sauce beautifully. But honestly, you can use any pasta you have — it’s all good!
Ground Beef: The heart of this dish! I usually go for lean ground beef for a healthier twist. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for building a robust flavor base. I recommend sweet onions for a nice touch, and fresh garlic always beats pre-minced in my book.
Tomato Sauce: A good quality tomato sauce adds depth and moisture. If I’m feeling adventurous, I sometimes use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
Cheese: The star ingredient for that ooey-gooey goodness! I like to mix sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the perfect melty topping. Feel free to experiment with your cheese preferences!
Spices: A blend of Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes rounds out the flavors. You can always adjust based on your spice tolerance!
Broth or Water: Just enough liquid to help cook the pasta while infusing flavor! I usually use beef broth for extra depth, but low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth works too.
Is Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Good for You?
Absolutely, but moderation is key!
Ground Beef: While it’s a great source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, opting for lean ground beef can reduce the amount of saturated fat you consume.
Pasta: Whole grain pasta can be a good option for added fiber, keeping you fuller for longer and helping with digestion.
Cheese: Cheese is delicious but can be high in calories and fat, so it’s best to use it sparingly. On the plus side, dairy provides calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Overall, this skillet dish isn’t something I would recommend eating every day, but it certainly can be part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with a colorful side salad or some steamed veggies!
Ingredients
– 1 pound of ground beef (lean)
– 1 cup of elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 (15 oz) can of tomato sauce
– 1 cup of beef broth (or water)
– 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Serves: 4-6
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add in the chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until they are translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in your tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, add in the pasta, making sure it is submerged in the sauce.
5. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
6. Lower the heat and add in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and creamy.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired!
Guilty Pleasures and Cooking Twists
– Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to sneak in some extra nutrition!
– For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef with kidney beans or lentils.
– If you love a bit more spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
As we wrap up, I can hardly wait for you to try this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet! It is such a crowd-pleaser that I’m sure your family will love it as much as mine does. So grab your skillet, put on that apron, and let the cheesy goodness embrace you. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out — happy cooking!
