Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini); 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This delicious Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a one-pan meal that's easy to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-12-24T11:42:41.057Z

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick and hearty meal that the whole family will love. It's packed with protein and can be customized with your favorite vegetables!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        One-pan convenience makes cleanup a breeze
Rich and savory flavor that satisfies hunger
Quick cooking time perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Solution

When you're pressed for time but still want a delicious meal, this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the answer. The combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and zesty tomatoes creates a satisfying dish that will please the whole family. With just one pan to clean up after, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you need to whip up something fast without compromising on taste.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep time and uses ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The one-pan method not only saves time but also allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just for yourself, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Customizable for Everyone's Taste

One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is its versatility. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you're looking to add more vegetables, throw in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.

Additionally, this dish can be tailored to spice levels. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For those who prefer milder flavors, simply skip the spices. This adaptability means that everyone at the dinner table can enjoy a version of this dish that they love.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking for a meal that holds up well for leftovers, this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is an excellent choice. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator and can easily be reheated for lunch or dinner the following day. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious after a day in the fridge.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider making a double batch and portioning it out for the week. Not only does this save time during busy weekdays, but it also ensures you have a hearty, homemade meal ready to go. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, and you have a satisfying meal in minutes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Gather all ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Add Cheese

Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover for a few minutes until the cheese is melted. Serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Pasta Skillet!

Tips for the Best Results

To ensure your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet turns out perfectly every time, start by using a good quality ground beef. Look for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overcooking the beef, as it can become tough. Browning it just enough to develop flavor while keeping it tender is key.

When adding the pasta, be sure to stir it well into the sauce. This will help the pasta absorb the flavors and prevent it from sticking together. If the mixture seems too dry, feel free to add a bit more beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of the skillet perfectly, providing a nice balance.

For those cheese lovers, consider serving extra cheese on the side. A sprinkle of Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta can take this dish to the next level. Don’t forget a glass of your favorite beverage to complete the meal experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or rotini hold sauce well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.