Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melted mozzarella cheese, it comes together quickly and satisfies the whole family.

Ingredients

• 2 cups ziti pasta (cooked, see NOTES)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and pepper, cooking until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the crushed red chili flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta and chopped parsley to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Season with salt to taste.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat until the cheese melts, about 3–5 minutes.
7. Step 7: Garnish with additional parsley before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sauté the onion and garlic in butter before adding the beef.
• You can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni pasta if preferred.
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for a vegetable boost.
• If you like it spicier, increase the crushed red chili flakes to taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace ground beef with cooked lentils, textured vegetable protein, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute and proceed with the same steps.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 79 reviews

A delicious and hearty one-pan Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet combining perfectly cooked ziti pasta with savory ground beef, tomato paste, and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe is easy to prepare and full of robust flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that satisfies comfort food cravings.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 2 cups ziti pasta (cooked, see notes)

Beef Mixture

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
• Salt to taste

Cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Begin by cooking the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, as it will be mixed later in the skillet.
2. Prepare Beef Mixture: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Add Seasonings: Stir in the crushed red chili flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Cook everything together for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors well and thicken the mixture slightly.
5. Combine Pasta and Parsley: Stir in the cooked ziti pasta and chopped parsley into the beef mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly across the top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt on low heat, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted and is bubbly, remove from heat. Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving warm.

Notes

• For best results, cook the ziti pasta until al dente to prevent mushiness when mixed into the skillet.
• You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red chili flakes according to taste.
• This recipe can be prepared in advance and reheated in the skillet or oven to retain its cheesy texture.

Keywords: cheesy ground beef pasta, skillet pasta, one-pan meal, comfort food, easy dinner