Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe that perfectly balances rich, savory flavors and satisfying textures in one easy-to-make dish. It’s a hearty, cheesy wonder that brings together tender ground beef, al dente penne pasta, and gooey cheddar cheese, all simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers mouthwatering goodness with every bite that warms your heart and fills your belly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty ground beef to the sharp cheddar cheese, these simple staples come together to create a dish that’s much greater than the sum of its parts.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides the savory, meaty base that makes the skillet hearty and satisfying.
- 8 oz penne pasta: A perfect shape that holds onto sauce and melts cheese beautifully.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds that irresistible creamy, cheesy finish that makes this dish shine.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth to the beef mixture once sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with fragrant, robust flavor.
- 15 oz can tomato sauce (unsalted): Creates the rich, tangy base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a subtle, aromatic Mediterranean touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing every flavor and balancing the dish perfectly.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. This step ensures the pasta is tender yet firm enough to hold up in the skillet without turning mushy later on. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the beef mixture.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it thoroughly for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns evenly. This step locks in the beef’s juicy flavor and creates a savory base. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy but still rich and satisfying.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
To build layers of flavor, add the diced onion and minced garlic straight into the skillet with your browned beef. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant, releasing those irresistible aromas that hint at the delicious meal ahead.
Step 4: Simmer with Tomato Sauce and Italian Seasoning
Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the beef mixture. Stir everything together, then let it simmer gently for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, the sauce to thicken slightly, and the herbs to infuse the dish with subtle, herby notes that lift the entire skillet.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture
Next, fold the cooked penne pasta into the beef and sauce mixture until every piece is coated in that rich tomato blend. This step ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor and perfectly balanced between pasta and meat. It’s the heart of the Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe, where everything comes together.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover the pan with a lid and let it heat on low for 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese melts into a luscious, gooey blanket. This final touch makes the dish irresistibly cheesy and visually stunning, signaling it’s ready to be devoured hot from the skillet.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe even more. Toss some chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and a fresh herbal kick. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a gentle heat if you’re feeling adventurous, while a dollop of sour cream can offer a creamy contrast that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish is the star, but pairing it with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables makes for a balanced meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the palate, while roasted broccoli or garlic-infused green beans bring added texture and nutrition without competing with the hearty pasta skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe straight in the cast iron or skillet you cooked it in, inviting everyone to dive in family-style. Alternatively, individual baking dishes can be used for personal portions, then topped with extra cheese and broiled briefly for a bubbly, golden finish that’s sure to impress any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as delicious, if not better. Leftovers should be eaten within 3 to 4 days to enjoy optimum taste and freshness.
Freezing
This Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe freezes wonderfully when wrapped tightly or placed in a freezer-safe container. Freeze in portions to make quick meals easier later on. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor integrity.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop in a covered pan over low heat to avoid drying out the pasta and beef. You can add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, the microwave works well—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until warm all the way through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully because of its shape, you can substitute with rigatoni, ziti, or even elbow macaroni. Just keep the pasta shape in mind so it holds the sauce well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or cooked lentils to maintain the protein content. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
Can I use a different cheese other than cheddar?
Definitely! Try mozzarella for a melty, stretchy texture or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for added sharpness. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well for that perfect gooey finish.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe is mild by default, focusing on savory and cheesy flavors. If you want a little kick, add crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce while cooking or at the table.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a busy weeknight?
You can cook everything except the final cheese melting step and refrigerate the pasta and beef mixture separately. When ready to eat, combine and melt the cheese on the stove or in the oven. This saves time and keeps the cheese perfectly gooey.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe enough if you’re looking for a soul-satisfying, family-friendly meal that comes together quickly and tastes like a warm hug. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and sure to become one of your go-to dishes for busy nights or casual get-togethers. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love all over again with classic comfort food!
Print
Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal featuring lean ground beef, tender penne pasta, and a rich tomato sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods to deliver a hearty and delicious dish in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Produce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry
- 15 oz can tomato sauce (unsalted)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be combined later with the beef mixture.
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is fully cooked and browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish lean.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic directly to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant, enhancing the flavor base of the dish.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning into the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together nicely.
- Combine Pasta and Beef Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss well to evenly coat the pasta with the beef and tomato sauce mixture.
- Top with Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Allow it to heat for 3-5 minutes until the cheese has melted thoroughly.
- Serve: Once cheese is melted and bubbly, serve the cheesy beef pasta skillet hot, straight from the pan for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories.
- Feel free to substitute penne with any other pasta shape like rigatoni or rotini.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onion.
- Covering the skillet to melt the cheese helps it become gooey and evenly distributed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if dry.
