Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a medley of vegetables in a single skillet. Perfect for a family dinner!
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a weeknight favorite in our home. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying meal for everyone!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-pan meal for easy cleanup
- Rich and savory flavors in every bite
- Quick cooking time for busy weeknights
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
When life gets busy, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is designed with efficiency in mind. With a quick preparation time and minimal cleanup, it allows you to serve a delicious meal without the fuss. Simply throw everything into one skillet, and let the magic happen. It's the ideal choice for families craving a hearty dinner after a long day.
Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also requires just a handful of ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. This means you can whip it up on a whim, making it a go-to recipe for those nights when dinner plans are still up in the air.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is its versatility. You can easily customize the dish to suit your family's preferences or to use up what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken if you're looking for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different types of pasta or add in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for an extra nutritional boost.
Additionally, the choice of cheese is entirely up to you. Whether you prefer a sharp cheddar or a creamy mozzarella, the melted cheese adds a delightful richness to the dish. This adaptability ensures that this skillet meal never gets boring and can be adjusted for any dietary needs.
A Comforting Family Favorite
There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of pasta. This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet combines the nostalgic flavors of classic Italian cooking with the convenience of a one-pot meal. It's a dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
As you serve this hearty meal, the aroma will surely evoke smiles and anticipation. The rich, savory flavors will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy the comfort of this meal again the next day.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (any shape)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting to cook.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your meal:
Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Add Onions and Garlic
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and pasta to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Add Cheese and Serve
If desired, stir in shredded cheese until melted. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Pasta Skillet!
Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet
To ensure your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet turns out perfectly, start by browning the beef thoroughly. This step enhances the flavor and gives the dish a nice depth. Don’t rush this process; letting the beef sear a bit can add a wonderful caramelized taste that elevates the entire dish.
When it comes to pasta, consider the cooking time on the package. Different pasta shapes may require varying amounts of time to cook. If you're using a whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider pairing your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with a simple salad and some crusty bread. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish beautifully, while bread allows everyone to soak up any delicious sauce left on their plates.
If you're looking to add a touch of freshness, a sprinkle of lemon juice or a side of roasted vegetables can brighten the meal. These additions not only enhance flavor but also provide a colorful presentation that makes the dinner table inviting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative.
→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a medley of vegetables in a single skillet. Perfect for a family dinner!
Created by: Grace Walker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (any shape)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and pasta to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
If desired, stir in shredded cheese until melted. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g