If you’ve ever dreamed of a one-pan meal that’s bursting with rich flavors, creamy textures, and that irresistible cheese pull, then this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. Comforting yet quick, this dish brings together perfectly cooked ziti pasta, savory ground beef simmered in a robust tomato-infused sauce, and ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese that melts to perfection. It’s a feast that feels homemade and indulgent without any fuss, making it the ultimate weeknight winner you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and unlocks the secret to this dish’s wonderful balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a simple but crucial role, from the hearty ground beef to the fresh parsley that adds a pop of color and freshness.
- 2 cups cooked ziti pasta: Opt for al dente to provide the perfect chewy texture that holds up well in the skillet.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein that brings savory depth to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and seasoning.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic layers that elevate the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional): For a subtle kick that awakens the palate.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and tang for complexity.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Delivers rich tomato flavor and thickens the sauce elegantly.
- 1 onion, chopped: Sweet and savory notes that mingle beautifully with the beef.
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley, plus more for garnish: Adds freshness and a vibrant green touch.
- Salt to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistibly melty and gooey topping everyone loves.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking your ziti pasta according to the package instructions, but here’s a little trick: subtract one minute from the recommended time to achieve al dente perfection. This slight undercook ensures the pasta won’t get mushy when it finishes cooking in the skillet. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining—this starchy water is liquid gold and will help bind the sauce and pasta together beautifully.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat your skillet over high heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it browns. This stage only takes about two minutes until that delicious golden crust starts to form. Then bring the heat down to medium to allow the flavors to develop without drying out the meat.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Now it’s time to season. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper, then add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and spoon in the tomato paste. Toss in the chopped parsley and pour the reserved pasta water over everything. Stir well, and let this simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes. This slow melding of ingredients creates a tender, juicy beef sauce packed with umami and just the right tanginess from the tomato paste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Toss your cooked ziti gently into the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the savory beef sauce. Sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, then cover the skillet with a lid to let the cheese melt into a creamy blanket—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. Once melted, finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness before serving straight from the pan.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
While the parsley sprinkled on top is perfect for a fresh burst of color and subtle herbal brightness, feel free to add a few additional garnishes like a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy extra heat, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a glossy finish. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also take this cheesy dish to the next level.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe is hearty and filling, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread adds a nice contrast in texture and flavor. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while warm garlic bread helps soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this skillet straight at the table for a rustic, family-style experience that encourages digging in together. Alternatively, you can portion the pasta into individual oven-safe dishes, add the cheese topping, and broil them for a golden bubbly crust on top. It’s a fun presentation that looks fancy but is oh-so-easy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe keep remarkably well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain moisture and reheat gently to avoid drying out the beef and pasta.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this comforting dish later, it freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheating can be done in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to bring back moisture. Alternatively, microwave the dish in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly. Covering the skillet or microwave-safe dish helps retain the melty cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti works perfectly thanks to its tubular shape and ability to hold sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni can be excellent substitutes depending on what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this dish spicy?
Definitely. The crushed red chili flakes add a subtle heat, but you can increase the amount or add a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a more pronounced spicy kick to suit your taste buds.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles can work as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed and be mindful of seasoning to maintain flavor balance.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or a combination of both. Cook them down with the onions and garlic to create a meaty texture that pairs wonderfully with the pasta and cheese.
What’s the best cheese to use besides mozzarella?
Mozzarella is ideal for that stretchy, melty goodness. However, you can mix in cheddar for a sharper flavor or use provolone or Monterey Jack for a similar melt and taste profile.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about coming together around a skillet filled with cozy, cheesy goodness, and the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe delivers that magic in every bite. Easy to make, delicious to enjoy, and satisfying to share, this is a meal that will undoubtedly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Go ahead, dive into this dish, and share the love with family and friends!
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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender ground beef simmered with aromatic garlic, onions, and spices, tossed together with perfectly cooked ziti pasta and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Ideal for a satisfying dinner, this recipe balances hearty protein with gooey cheese and fresh parsley for a comforting and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked ziti pasta (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 package instructions until al dente, reducing the cooking time by one minute for optimal texture. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining without rinsing to retain starches for the sauce.
- Brown Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon for about 2 minutes until it starts to brown. Then reduce the heat to medium.
- Simmer Beef Mixture: Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, chili flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, chopped parsley, and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water (or plain water). Stir everything to combine and let simmer for 8-10 minutes until the meat is tender and flavors have melded.
- Toss Pasta and Melt Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover with a lid, and allow the cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with extra parsley before serving.
Notes
- For best results, cook the ziti pasta just shy of al dente and reserve pasta water to enhance the sauce’s texture.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red chili flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit completely if desired.
- Using fresh parsley adds brightness, but feel free to substitute with dried parsley if needed.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Serve immediately for best cheesy melt and flavor.
