How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious meal that the whole family will love? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. This dish is not only hearty and cheesy but also incredibly easy to make, making it one of my favorite easy pasta recipes. In just 30 minutes, you can have a comforting dinner on the table that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Hearty and cheesy, making it a family favorite.
• Uses simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
• Great for busy weeknights when you need weeknight dinner ideas.
• Can be customized with your favorite veggies or spices!

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Ground Beef Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups ziti pasta (cooked, see NOTES)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon 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

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

1. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 1 minute to achieve that perfect al dente texture. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta without rinsing.
2. In a large skillet over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and brown it while breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 2 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to medium. Season the beef with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped onions, optional chili flakes, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Let it simmer until the meat is tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Once the beef mixture is ready, toss in the cooked pasta and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining cheese and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Skillet Pasta turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrition.
• If you like a little kick, increase the amount of crushed red chili flakes.
• For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.
• This dish is also great for meal prep! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

How to Serve

This Beef Pasta is perfect as a standalone meal, but you can elevate it even further! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread or a side of creamy garlic pasta for a delightful combination.
• Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• For a fun twist, serve it in individual bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re like me and love to plan ahead, this recipe is perfect for that! Here’s how to store it:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
• You can also freeze this dish! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

And there you have it! A delicious, cheesy, and satisfying Ground Beef Pasta dish that’s perfect for quick family dinners. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my recipes for Ground Beef Stroganoff, Beef Stir Fry, and Mongolian Beef. Happy cooking, and enjoy your meal!