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Quick One-Pan Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Dinner

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A quick and easy one-pan skillet dinner combining ground beef, pasta, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for a cheesy, hearty, and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 8 ounces (225g) medium pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells)
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
  • 1 cup (240ml) diced tomatoes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened but not browned.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Add ground beef, crumble it into the skillet, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned with no pink spots. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  5. Pour in 2 cups beef broth and 8 ounces dry pasta. Spread the pasta evenly and press it gently into the liquid without stirring.
  6. Bring to a gentle boil, cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
  7. If using, stir in 1 cup diced tomatoes about 5 minutes before the pasta finishes cooking.
  8. Once pasta is tender and most liquid absorbed, remove lid and sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 cup shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Cover again and let cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
  9. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Optionally add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  10. Serve immediately, optionally with a green salad or crusty bread.

Notes

Do not stir pasta immediately after adding to broth; press it gently into the liquid and let it cook covered to absorb flavors. Stir halfway through simmering to prevent sticking. Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for best cheesy texture. For gluten-free, substitute pasta with gluten-free variety. For dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and check broth ingredients. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option.

Nutrition

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

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