Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Introduction

When you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy, nothing beats a Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet. This one-pan wonder combines juicy ground beef, tender pasta, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a gooey layer of melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy enough for a Sunday family dinner but quick enough for busy weeknights.

The best part? Everything comes together in a single skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal. The flavors are robust yet familiar, making this dish a guaranteed hit for both adults and kids.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan meal: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.

Customizable: Swap the cheese, adjust spices, or sneak in extra veggies.

Family-friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying—picky eaters won’t resist.

Quick & easy: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients (Serves 4–5)

1 lb (450 g) ground beef – lean works best to avoid too much grease.

1 small onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth.

3 garlic cloves, minced – fragrant and flavorful.

1 bell pepper, diced (optional) – for color and a slight crunch.

2 cups uncooked pasta – penne, rotini, or shells absorb the sauce beautifully.

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes – or use tomato sauce for a smoother base.

2 tbsp tomato paste – deepens the flavor and richness.

2 cups beef broth – can substitute chicken or vegetable broth.

1 tsp Italian seasoning – or a mix of oregano and basil.

1 tsp paprika (optional) – adds a subtle smoky note.

Salt & black pepper, to taste.

1 ½ cups shredded cheese – cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for extra stretch.

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – for a fresh garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

Heat a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.

Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.

Stir in the chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

If there’s excess grease, carefully drain it off.

2. Build the Sauce Base

Mix in the tomato paste, coating the beef and vegetables for a rich, concentrated flavor.

Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Stir everything together until well combined.

3. Simmer & Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low.

Let it cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.

If the sauce reduces too quickly, add a splash of broth or water to help the pasta cook fully.

4. Add the Cheesy Finish

Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted into the sauce.

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly across the top.

Cover the skillet again for 2–3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a bubbly, gooey layer.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve directly from the skillet for the ultimate cozy, family-style meal.

Pair it with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or simply enjoy it on its own.

Tips & Variations

Spicy kick: Add red chili flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.

Veggie boost: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.

Cheese options: Try Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a little Parmesan for extra flavor.

Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese before adding the cheese topping.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet is the definition of comfort food—rich, hearty, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want an easy, satisfying dinner, this recipe delivers every time. And since it’s all made in one pan, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time savoring the cheesy goodness.

Dig in while it’s warm and melty—because nothing says happiness like pasta, beef, and cheese all in one bite.