Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and hearty meal, this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet brings together savory beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for a comforting dish that the whole family will love.
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a perfect weeknight dinner solution. Packed with flavors and ready in just 30 minutes, it's a family favorite that combines protein and carbs in one pan!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
- Savory beef and pasta blend for a filling meal
- Quick prep and cook time perfect for busy weeknights
A Family Favorite
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a meal that resonates with families everywhere. It combines the rich, savory flavors of ground beef with the comforting texture of pasta, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also satisfying. Children and adults alike will appreciate the hearty nature of this skillet, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners.
Preparing meals that cater to everyone’s tastes can be challenging, but this dish strikes the perfect balance. The combination of beef, pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce delivers a familiar comfort while allowing room for customization. Add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own, ensuring that every member of the family leaves the table happy.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the standout features of the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is its one-pan convenience. With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. This efficiency is perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Additionally, this dish is ideal for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator for quick reheating. It holds up well in the fridge, making it a perfect candidate for leftovers, which can save you time and effort on those hectic days.
Versatile and Customizable
The beauty of the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet lies in its versatility. You can swap out the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute to accommodate different dietary preferences. This adaptability makes it suitable for various diets, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious meal together.
Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or add in vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value of the dish. These small tweaks can elevate the flavor profile while making the meal even more appealing and wholesome.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.
Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Add Pasta and Liquids
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and pasta. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Cook the Pasta
Reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve
Once done, remove from heat and serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with a side salad or some garlic bread!
Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet
To achieve the best flavor in your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, make sure to brown the beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the overall taste and gives the dish a richer base. Don't rush this part; let the beef develop a nice crust for optimal flavor.
When cooking the pasta, be mindful of the cooking time indicated on the package. Different types of pasta can vary significantly in cooking time, so adjust accordingly. Stirring occasionally while it simmers helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serving your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a delightful finishing touch. The creamy, nutty flavor of the cheese complements the savory beef and tomato sauce perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Pair this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. A light salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet, while bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making this dish not only convenient but also a great option for meal prep. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
If you prefer freezing your leftovers, this skillet dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above for a quick and satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
→ What type of pasta works best?
Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni works well.
→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
A quick and hearty meal, this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet brings together savory beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce for a comforting dish that the whole family will love.
Created by: Naomi Clarke
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and pasta. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once done, remove from heat and serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g