Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines savory ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce.
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it's also a comforting dish that the whole family will love. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it's perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying meal in one pan
- Rich and savory flavors that please everyone
- Quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
A Hearty One-Pan Meal
The Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the epitome of a hearty meal, perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends. This dish combines protein-rich ground beef with pasta, making it an all-in-one powerhouse that satisfies hunger without the need for multiple side dishes. The convenience of preparing everything in a single skillet means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, and feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. The rich, savory sauce envelops the pasta and meat, making each bite incredibly flavorful and comforting. It's a dish that welcomes creativity while still delivering a deliciously satisfying experience.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook a nourishing meal can be a challenge. This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet comes to the rescue with its quick preparation time. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table, perfect for busy weeknights when you want to spend less time cooking and more time with family.
The straightforward cooking process is designed for efficiency. With minimal chopping and no complicated techniques, even novice cooks can confidently whip up this dish. The one-pan method means you can focus on enjoying your meal rather than juggling multiple pots and pans, making it a stress-free option for any evening.
Family-Friendly Flavor
One of the standout features of this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is its universally appealing flavors. The blend of Italian seasoning, savory beef, and melty cheese creates a comforting and delicious dish that is sure to please picky eaters and food lovers alike. This is a meal that brings the family together around the table, making it perfect for busy nights when you just want to enjoy good food and good company.
Serving this dish can also lead to wonderful opportunities for conversation and bonding. With its hearty nature and rich flavors, the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet often becomes a favorite among both kids and adults. It's a great way to introduce new ingredients or flavors to your family while still keeping the meal familiar and comforting.
Ingredients
For the Skillet
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Instructions
Cooking Steps
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Add Cheese and Serve
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet
To ensure your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider browning the beef thoroughly for added depth of flavor. Don't rush this step; letting the beef develop a nice crust can elevate the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of extra salt or a dash of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavors significantly.
If you want to add some vegetables for a nutritional boost, consider tossing in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Adding these ingredients not only increases the meal's health benefits but also adds vibrant colors and textures, making the dish even more visually appealing.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers from your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the flavors intact, make sure to let it cool down before sealing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to loosen it up if needed. This way, you can savor the deliciousness of the meal a second time without compromising on taste.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the skillet. Once cooled, portion out the meal into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This is a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you always have a hearty, homemade meal ready to enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative and will still provide great flavor.
→ What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne or rotini are ideal as they hold the sauce well.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines savory ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce.
Created by: Arabella Scott
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Skillet
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g