EASY CHEESY ONE-POT BEEF PASTA SKILLET

I remember one particularly chaotic week in college when my roommate and I were juggling exams, a mountain of laundry, and somehow still trying to maintain a semblance of a social life; that’s when the beauty of quick, comforting meals truly shone, and it was recipes like this Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet that saved us from resorting to yet another night of takeout. This recipe is designed to be fuss-free and satisfying, so get ready to enjoy a creamy, cheesy bowl of deliciousness without spending hours in the kitchen – I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy it is!

The Ultimate Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet: Your New Weeknight Hero

Let’s face it, weeknights can be brutal. You’re tired, hungry, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s where this Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet comes in. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup – everything you could possibly want in a weeknight meal. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, so you can easily adapt it to your family’s preferences. This recipe is all about creating a comforting and flavorful dish with minimal effort, and I’m here to guide you through every step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to relax.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your family’s preferences by swapping out the vegetables or cheese.
• Comfort Food: This dish is the ultimate comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this recipe is a great way to stretch your grocery budget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet. Don’t worry; most of these are pantry staples!

• Ground Beef: The star of the show! I recommend using lean ground beef (80/20) to avoid excess grease.
• Pasta: I love using penne or rotini, but any short pasta shape will work.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients add depth of flavor to the dish.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide acidity and moisture.
• Beef Broth: The liquid base for the sauce. You can also use chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer.
• Tomato Paste: Adds richness and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For that cheesy goodness! You can also use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella, or any other cheese you like.
• Milk or Cream (Optional): For extra creaminess.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• Optional Add-Ins: Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or any other vegetables you like.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Skillet to Supper

Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making this Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet. I’ll walk you through each step to ensure perfect results every time.

1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the Pasta: Add the pasta to the skillet and stir to combine. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. If necessary, add a little more broth or water.
5. Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Stir in the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If desired, stir in a splash of milk or cream for extra creaminess.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Skillet

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure your Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet turns out perfectly every time.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep a close eye on the pasta while it’s simmering. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and detract from the overall texture of the dish. Test the pasta for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time and adjust accordingly.
• Use the Right Skillet: A large, deep skillet is essential for this recipe. It needs to be large enough to hold all the ingredients and deep enough to prevent the liquid from boiling over. A 12-inch skillet is ideal.
• Adjust the Liquid: The amount of liquid you need will depend on the type of pasta you use and the heat of your stovetop. If the pasta is absorbing the liquid too quickly, add a little more broth or water. If there’s too much liquid, remove the lid and simmer for a few minutes to allow it to evaporate.
• Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds a depth of flavor that you don’t want to miss. It helps to thicken the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and evenly than pre-shredded cheese. It also has a better flavor.
• Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious in this dish.
• Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the Italian seasoning.
• Make it Healthier: Use whole wheat pasta, lean ground turkey instead of beef, and load up on vegetables to make this dish healthier.

Variations and Substitutions: Make It Your Own

One of the best things about this Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet is that it’s so versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking with different ingredients and flavors. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for added protein.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet along with the Italian seasoning. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Chicken Version: Substitute the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken.
• Different Pasta Shapes: Use any short pasta shape you like, such as rotini, farfalle, cavatappi, or elbow macaroni.
• Creamy Tomato Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt along with the cheese.
• Add Some Greens: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side dish to round out the meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing for pasta dishes.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
• Crusty Bread: For soaking up the delicious sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

This recipe is also a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time to ensure the pasta is cooked through.

Other Pasta Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you loved this Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet, here are a few other pasta recipes you might enjoy:

• For another cheesy and comforting pasta dish, try this Pasta Carbonara.
• Looking for something with a bit more vegetables? Check out this Chicken Zucchini Pasta Skillet.
• If you’re a fan of ricotta cheese, you’ll love this Ricotta Chicken Pasta.
• For a heartier and more indulgent meal, try this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta.
• If you love the combination of garlic and beef, you absolutely must try this Garlic Beef Pasta.
• And if you’re in the mood for chicken, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a winner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet recipe:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, farfalle, or elbow macaroni.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time to ensure the pasta is cooked through.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it’s simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

What if the sauce is too thick?

Add a little more broth or water to thin the sauce.

What if the sauce is too thin?

Remove the lid and simmer for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

Ready to Get Cooking?

I hope you enjoy this Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet recipe as much as I do! It’s a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Easy Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet

This Cheesy One-Pot Beef Pasta Skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a quick, customizable, and comforting meal that requires minimal cleanup, made with simple ingredients for a budget-friendly and satisfying dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound lean ground beef 80/20
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 8 ounces penne pasta or other short pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk or cream optional
• Optional add-ins: bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, spinach

Equipment

• Large skillet (12-inch)
• Spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Lid for skillet

Method

 

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the pasta to the skillet and stir to combine. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. If necessary, add a little more broth or water.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If desired, stir in a splash of milk or cream for extra creaminess.
7. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese, if desired.

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta; test for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time. Adjust the liquid as needed depending on the pasta type and stovetop heat. Tomato paste adds essential depth of flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts better. Customize the cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or provolone. Add red pepper flakes for heat. For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta, lean ground turkey, and load up on vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the microwave or skillet.