Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This cheesy ground beef pasta skillet is my secret weapon on nights when I want big comfort with minimal fuss It brings together melty cheese hearty beef and pasta in one pan for a meal that satisfies everyone at the table

I remember a time when I threw this together with extra pasta and it quickly became a weekly favorite in our house There is something magical about how the beef and cheese come together

Ingredients

• Ziti pasta: cooked until just shy of al dente It holds up better in the skillet and absorbs plenty of flavor
• Extra virgin olive oil: for sautéing and a touch of richness Choose oil that smells fresh and fruity
• Ground beef: creates a protein packed hearty base Look for good marbling for best results
• Chopped onion: brings sweetness and depth Use yellow or white onions and chop evenly for even cooking
• Black pepper and salt: to balance flavors Freshly cracked pepper adds extra aroma
• Minced garlic: elevates the dish with bold flavor Always choose firm cloves for best taste
• Crushed red chili flakes: if you like a gentle heat Use sparingly if sensitive to spice
• Worcestershire sauce: offers umami complexity Look for brands with minimal additives
• Tomato paste: packs in concentrated tomato flavor Always use a small can or squeeze tube to keep extra fresh
• Chopped parsley: for brightness Select flat leaf parsley and wash well
• Shredded mozzarella: gives creamy meltiness Freshly shredded always melts nicer than pre bagged
• Leftover or any pasta shapes: You can use leftover pasta or any pasta shapes you have on hand for even more convenience

Step by Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil ziti in well salted water following box instructions but take it off the heat one minute early Reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining so you have starch to enrich the sauce Do not rinse the pasta because the surface starch helps hold the sauce

Brown the Beef:

In a large deep skillet heat the olive oil over high Add ground beef break it up well and cook just until it starts to brown about two minutes This fast method keeps the beef juicy not dry

Build Flavor:

Drop the heat to medium Season the beef with salt and black pepper now so every bite has seasoning Stir in chopped onions and let them get soft and golden which sweetens their taste Add garlic and chili flakes for aroma and gentle heat Pour in the Worcestershire tomato paste parsley and the reserved pasta water Simmer until beef is fully tender and the onions are meltingly soft letting all the flavors combine This usually takes about eight to ten minutes Scrape the bottom occasionally to prevent sticking

Combine and Melt:

Add the cooked drained pasta to the skillet and toss it thoroughly so every piece is coated Sprinkle half of the mozzarella in and stir to distribute cheese evenly Smooth out the top layer then scatter on the rest of the mozzarella Cover with a tight lid until cheese has melted into gooey perfection

Finish and Serve:

Remove from heat Take off the lid and shower with extra chopped parsley for color Serve the skillet dish family style right from the pan while hot

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This dish has always been a winner at my table The mozzarella is my favorite part because it bubbles and turns beautifully golden on top creating cheesy ribbons that make each forkful extra satisfying I still remember my daughter asking for seconds the first time I served it

Storage Tips

Any leftovers keep well covered in the fridge for up to three days You can reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce or warm the full skillet on low with a lid to revive the gooey cheese texture The dish also freezes surprisingly well in small containers for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap ziti for penne rigatoni or even rotini Whatever short pasta you have on hand works Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option Parmesan or cheddar can stand in for mozzarella if needed Just adjust the seasonings and watch the salt if your cheese is saltier

Serving Suggestions

Serve this skillet meal straight from the pan with a crisp green salad or roasted green beans on the side For extra indulgence drizzle hot sauce on top or pile on more cheese right after serving Warm garlic bread also pairs perfectly with this cozy dinner

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A Bit of Recipe Inspiration

Pasta skillets like this have roots in Italian American cuisine where simple pantry staples are transformed into something rich and soul warming This kind of dish became common as a budget friendly weeknight solution that fills up a family using what is already in the pantry I started making it during busy stretches when I craved a dinner that everyone would look forward to

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or rotini are great substitutes for ziti and will soak up sauce nicely.

→ Is it possible to use other cheeses?

Mozzarella is classic for meltiness, but cheddar or Monterey Jack add unique flavor. Blend as preferred.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work well and adapt to various diets.

→ Why reserve pasta water?

The starchy water helps thicken and bind the sauce, giving your skillet dish a creamy texture.

→ How spicy is the dish?

The crushed red chili flakes are optional, so you can easily adjust the heat or omit for a milder flavor.