If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together quickly and bursts with flavor, this Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and gooey melted cheddar, it’s a one-pan wonder that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this dish brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied appetites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry and fridge staples, yet each one plays a critical role in building the flavor, texture, and vibrant color of your Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe. From fresh vegetables that provide a sweet crunch to rich cheese that adds that irresistible melty goodness, every item is essential.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this pasta filling and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a perfect sear on the beef and to sauté the vegetables evenly.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Brings a mild, fresh crunch and a splash of color.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Sweetness and brightness that balances the savory beef.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that classic aromatic punch.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Offers fresh tomato flavor and juicy texture.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Provides a smooth base for the sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings an herby, Mediterranean flair.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering.
- 8 oz rotini pasta: Its corkscrew shape captures sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that melts throughout, creating a creamy, cheesy finish.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef and Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef along with diced onions and both bell peppers. Cook this mixture until the beef is nicely browned and the vegetables are softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the hearty, savory foundation of the dish and releases the natural sweetness from the onions and peppers.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Build Flavor
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about one more minute. Garlic adds an irresistible depth and aroma that transforms the dish from good to unforgettable. Be careful not to burn the garlic to keep its delicate flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Now it’s time to pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, followed by Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This simmering melds all the flavors beautifully, thickens the sauce slightly, and lets the herbs shine through.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While your sauce simmers, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside. Choosing rotini is perfect for this recipe because its spiral shape grabs onto that luscious sauce and melted cheese.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return your skillet to the heat and mix the cooked pasta right into the beef and vegetable sauce. Stir thoroughly so each piece of pasta is coated with the rich, flavorful mixture, ensuring every bite will be delicious.
Step 6: Add the Cheesy Touch
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and gently stir until melted and smoothly distributed. The cheese envelopes the whole dish with a creamy, cheesy goodness that elevates this simple meal into something extraordinary and comforting.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil right on top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich pasta. A light dusting of grated Parmesan can add a slightly nutty twist if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the cheese richness. Garlic bread or a crunchy baguette are also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cheesy beef pasta in individual mini cast-iron skillets or colorful bowls. Sprinkle some extra cheese and broil for a minute to get that irresistible bubbly topping. This not only looks inviting but makes each portion feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesy beef pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess without drying out the pasta or the beef.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even macaroni will work perfectly. Just make sure to cook them al dente to avoid mushiness when combined with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils to keep the protein without meat. You can then follow the recipe exactly the same way for a delicious vegetarian version.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when you add the Italian seasoning or drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving. These simple additions will bring a nice little kick to the recipe.
What type of cheese works best besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of Mexican cheeses melt wonderfully in this dish and offer a different flavor profile while maintaining that creamy texture.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance to save time?
Definitely. You can cook the beef and vegetable sauce the day before and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, mix it all together, add the cheese, and enjoy a quick, fresh meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that is both satisfyingly hearty and ridiculously easy to make, and this Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe checks all those boxes. It’s the kind of meal that feels homemade and special without hours in the kitchen. Give it a try—you might find it becoming your go-to comfort food that everyone asks for again and again.
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Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Beef Pasta is a hearty and flavorful one-pan dish combining ground beef, sautéed vegetables, a rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that balances protein, veggies, and comforting carbs all in one skillet.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the ingredients.
- Cook Beef and Vegetables: Add ground beef, diced onions, and both green and red bell peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables have softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma without burning.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into the skillet. Stir to combine, reduce heat slightly, and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors.
- Cook Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef and vegetable sauce, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir gently until it melts evenly throughout the dish.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy beef pasta hot for a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- You can substitute rotini with any other pasta shape like penne or fusilli.
- Use low-fat cheese to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a microwave or skillet.
