Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe

If you’re longing for an all-in-one dinner that delivers gooey, golden cheese, savory beef, and pasta all in a single skillet, then you are absolutely in for a treat with this Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe. This is comfort food at its best—each bite is hearty, flavorful, and just a bit indulgent, making it a weekday superstar that everyone at the table will be reaching for. It comes together quickly, with minimal effort and maximum reward, bringing together nostalgic flavors you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing beats a recipe with familiar, no-fuss ingredients each playing a vital role in building irresistibly rich taste and beautiful texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why each element is essential for this ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe:

• Pasta: Choose malloreddus, shells, or rotini for their ability to catch all the saucy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a luscious foundation as you brown the beef.
• Ground beef: Opt for grass-fed if possible for even more flavor; it’s protein-packed and creates that hearty, classic base.
• Garlic powder: Gives a mellow, savory aromatic that infuses into the beef for depth without overpowering.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: These bring a subtle, warming kick that keeps the sauce from being one-note.
• Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Essential for rounding out all the flavors; season as you go for best results.
• Pasta sauce: A good jarred sauce is a massive time saver and acts as the velvety base for the bake—pick your favorite variety!
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Two cups make this dish gloriously cheesy, with a tangy bite and fantastic melting properties.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Pour in your medium pasta shape of choice—malloreddus, shells, or rotini—and cook until they’re just al dente, following the timing on the box. Don’t forget: slightly undercooked pasta will continue to cook in the sauce and oven, so err on the side of firm. Drain well and set aside while you move on to the magic in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Spices

While your pasta cooks, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large, oven-safe cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Sauté until the beef is nicely browned and cooked through—about 5 to 7 minutes. The spices will bloom in the oil, infusing the meat with mouthwatering flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Pour your favorite jarred pasta sauce right into the browned beef, stirring to combine. Let this mixture simmer for about 15 minutes on reduced heat, letting all the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly. This step makes all the difference in developing that rich, robust depth typical of the best Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe dishes—don’t rush it!

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add the well-drained pasta to the skillet, then sprinkle in about a quarter of your shredded sharp cheddar (roughly 1/2 cup). Stir until everything is well-combined and the cheese melts into the sauce, making everything extra creamy and luscious. This helps glue everything together so each bite delivers the perfect balance of pasta, beef, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Scatter the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top, then place the skillet in a preheated 400˚F oven. Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is gloriously melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. This final step brings the Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe together, giving you that irresistible, golden cheesy crust on top. Let it cool slightly before serving—if you can wait!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Once you pull your skillet from the oven, sprinkle a handful of fresh chopped parsley or basil over the top for an herby pop of color and a touch of brightness that balances the rich, cheesy flavors. A little extra-cracked black pepper or even some finely grated Parmesan can elevate the presentation and add extra savory notes.

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with a crisp green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette to contrast the creaminess of the pasta. Garlic bread or a simple toasted baguette for scooping up that extra sauce makes the Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe truly feel like a complete comfort feast. Don’t forget a light vegetable side—roasted broccoli or green beans work wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style dining, bring the skillet straight to the table and let everyone dig in. Or, spoon portions into individual bowls and top each with an extra cheese flourish. You can even serve it in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins at a casual dinner party to make this humble classic feel extra special. However you present it, every serving promises a dose of homey comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, so leftovers can be an even greater treat the next day!

Freezing

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results. This is a great way to keep a cozy homemade meal on standby for busy nights.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat leftovers in a 350˚F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through—about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions in a pinch, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or extra sauce before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic here for its tangy melt and flavor, try swapping in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for something a little different. Gruyère or smoked gouda can give the Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe a fun twist.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No problem! After combining everything on the stovetop, simply transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake as directed. The results will be just as delicious.

Can I add veggies to this dish?

Definitely. Stir chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef as it browns, or toss in some steamed broccoli with the pasta for a nutrient boost. The Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe is very forgiving and customizable.

Is this recipe spicy?

The crushed red pepper adds just a mild warmth. If you want it completely mild, reduce or omit the flakes. Prefer extra heat? Add more red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce before baking.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes! Prepare everything except the final bake, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, top with cheese and bake until bubbly. This makes the Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe a perfect option for prepping ahead.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing more satisfying than gathering around the table for a bubbling skillet of cheesy, meaty pasta, and this Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Pasta Recipe will become a new weeknight legend in your kitchen. Give it a try and see for yourself how effortlessly delicious comfort food can be!

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