Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

There’s something deeply comforting about a skillet meal—the kind that bubbles with melted cheese, savory beef, and tender pasta, all mingling together in one glorious dish. It reminds me of those evenings when time slips away, and you need something hearty, quick, and utterly satisfying. This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is my go-to on busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or anytime I crave a meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without fail, forks at the ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef – I prefer 85% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
• 8 oz elbow pasta (or your favorite short pasta) – The little tubes hold onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
• 1 small onion, diced – Sweet yellow onions add depth, but white or red work too.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because what’s a skillet meal without garlic?
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce – Opt for plain tomato sauce, not marinara, for the best texture.
• 1 cup beef broth – This adds richness and helps cook the pasta perfectly.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A little herbaceous magic to tie everything together.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar melts like a dream, but feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t skimp—season as you go!

How to Make This Cozy Skillet Masterpiece

1. Brown the beef. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat, but leave a little for flavor.
2. Sauté the aromatics. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and let it bloom for just 30 seconds—you’ll smell the magic!
3. Simmer the sauce. Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir, then bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the flavors start to cozy up together.
4. Cook the pasta. Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Cheese, please! Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, then cover again for 2–3 minutes to let it melt into ooey-gooey perfection. For a golden finish, pop the skillet under the broiler for a minute (but keep a close eye!).

And just like that, dinner is served—straight from the skillet to your plate, with minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. But before you dig in, let’s talk about how to make this dish your own…

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This cheesy ground beef pasta skillet is wonderfully adaptable to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses work beautifully too.
• Pasta Options: Any short pasta works – penne, rotini, or bowties would be delightful.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like some heat.

What to Serve With Your Cheesy Pasta Skillet

This hearty dish is satisfying on its own, but pairs wonderfully with:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls
• Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
• A glass of red wine or iced tea

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers (if you have any!) store beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy. Microwave works too – cover and stir occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish through step 4 (before adding the cheese), then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat and add the cheese as directed.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While block cheese melts smoother, pre-shredded works in a pinch. Just know it might be slightly less creamy due to anti-caking agents.

How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?
Try using milder cheeses, omitting onions if needed, and cutting back on garlic. You can also stir in some hidden veggies like finely grated carrots or zucchini.

Final Thoughts

This cheesy ground beef pasta skillet is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles. It’s comfort food at its finest – hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor, yet simple enough for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this versatile dish is sure to become a regular in your rotation. The best part? That moment when you lift the lid to reveal the melted cheese blanket covering the savory beef and pasta beneath. Pure dinner magic!