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 lb ground beef; 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick and delicious weeknight meal that combines hearty ground beef with tender pasta and a rich tomato sauce.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-12-24T11:45:37.231Z

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. It's a family favorite that can be prepared in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy weeknights
Rich flavors that satisfy the whole family
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices

      

A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When you're juggling a busy schedule, whipping up a homemade dinner can feel like a daunting task. This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is designed to simplify your evening routine without sacrificing flavor. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. It's a complete dish that delivers protein, carbs, and vegetables all in one, making it an ideal choice for families on the go.

Not only is this recipe quick, but it also allows for easy cleanup. There's no need to dirty multiple pots and pans; everything cooks together in the skillet. This means you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying a delicious meal with your family. Plus, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something that's both satisfying and simple.

Endless Customization

One of the greatest features of the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors and textures to the dish.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick. Alternatively, you can switch up the cheese—try mozzarella for a gooey, melty topping, or sprinkle some Parmesan for a tangy finish. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is not just a fantastic dinner option; it’s also an excellent meal prep candidate. You can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch, which can be portioned out for lunches throughout the week. Store individual servings in airtight containers, and you’ll have ready-to-eat meals that just need a quick reheat in the microwave.

Moreover, the flavors of this dish improve after a day in the fridge, as the ingredients have time to meld together. This means you can enjoy even more deliciousness on the second day. Whether you’re prepping for a busy workweek or simply want to have leftovers for a quick bite, this recipe fits seamlessly into your meal planning routine.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

1 lb ground beef
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Mix all these ingredients for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Add Pasta

Add the pasta to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente.

Serve

Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese if using, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Pasta Skillet!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best texture for your pasta, be sure to follow the cooking time on the pasta package. Since it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from heat, it's better to undercook it a bit to reach the perfect al dente consistency. Additionally, if you prefer a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.

Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as you go. Each brand of diced tomatoes and beef broth can vary in saltiness, so it’s important to balance flavors to your liking. A little extra Italian seasoning can enhance the overall taste, bringing out the rich flavors of the beef and tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread, making it an all-in-one meal that feels complete. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious complement.

For a family-friendly touch, consider letting everyone customize their plates with toppings such as additional cheese, crushed red pepper, or fresh herbs. This not only adds an interactive element to dinner but also ensures everyone gets to enjoy their meal just the way they like it.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out. You can microwave individual portions or heat it on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the skillet. Transfer cooled leftovers to freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or rotini are great choices, but you can use any pasta you have on hand.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just cook them when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.