Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a deliciously easy one-pan meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's packed with flavors and can be ready in no time.
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet brings together the richness of ground beef and the comforting essence of pasta in a delightful one-pan dish. It's quick to prepare and makes cleanup a breeze!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying meal that pleases everyone
- One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
- Packed with flavors and textures that excite your palate
A Quick and Easy Dinner Solution
When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome dinner can be challenging. This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a satisfying meal that your entire family will enjoy.
The one-pan nature of this recipe means you won't have to deal with a mountain of dishes afterward. It allows for easy cooking and cleanup, making it a favorite among busy parents and anyone looking for a quick yet hearty meal. Just toss everything into the skillet, let it simmer, and dinner is served!
Flavorful Ingredients Come Together
This recipe highlights the beauty of using pantry staples and fresh ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Ground beef provides a rich, meaty base, while the combination of diced tomatoes and beef broth adds depth and moisture, creating a delicious sauce that the pasta absorbs beautifully. The addition of Italian seasoning elevates the dish with aromatic herbs that fill your kitchen with fantastic scents.
Onions and garlic bring an additional layer of flavor that complements the beef and tomatoes, creating a well-rounded dish that excites the palate. Don't forget the grated Parmesan cheese on top; it adds a creamy, savory finish that takes this skillet meal to the next level.
Perfect for Customization
One of the best things about this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or whatever ingredients you have available. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also try different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free varieties, to suit your dietary needs.
Additionally, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutritional value. These can be tossed in alongside the onions and garlic for a colorful and healthy twist. The possibilities are endless, making this dish not only a family favorite but also a great way to use up leftovers!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 medium 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
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Onion and Garlic
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and bring to a boil.
Cook the Pasta
Add the pasta to the skillet, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your meal straight from the skillet for a cozy dining experience!
Tips for Best Results
To achieve the best flavor in your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, be sure to brown the beef well before adding other ingredients. This step develops a rich, savory base that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, don't rush the simmering process; allowing the pasta to cook in the broth absorbs more flavor, ensuring each bite is delicious.
If you prefer a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet. This simple addition can transform the dish into a delightful spicy experience that many will appreciate.
Storage and Reheating
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. When reheating, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of beef broth if it appears dry.
For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet meal for up to two months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up on the stove or in the microwave. This ensures you can enjoy a quick, satisfying meal even on the busiest of days.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish.
For a cozy touch, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This combination not only rounds out the meal but also makes it even more enjoyable for everyone at the table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.
→ What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta works well, but short shapes like penne or shells hold the sauce nicely.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a deliciously easy one-pan meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's packed with flavors and can be ready in no time.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 medium 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
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and bring to a boil.
Add the pasta to the skillet, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g