Description
Ground beef and pasta mingle in this cheesy ground beef pasta skillet, creating a comforting one-pan meal packed with rich flavors. Melted cheese and hearty ingredients combine for a satisfying dinner that brings family and friends together around the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 cups (240 g) uncooked pasta (elbow, penne, or rotini)
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
- 1 (15 oz/425 g) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz/411 g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear Protein: Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, eliminating any excess fat for a cleaner, richer foundation.
- Aromatic Infusion: Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and release their fragrant essence.
- Liquid Integration: Pour tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth into the skillet, then introduce pasta and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper for a robust flavor profile.
- Cooking Consolidation: Elevate heat to bring mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and let the pasta absorb the savory liquid, stirring periodically until perfectly tender and al dente.
- Cheese Transformation: Fold in the first portion of cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy texture. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, covering briefly to achieve a molten, golden-brown finish.
- Final Flourish: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch, then serve immediately while the dish maintains its warm, comforting appeal.
Notes
- Drain excess beef fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy dish and ensure a cleaner, more appetizing texture.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking throughout the skillet.
- Allow residual heat to melt cheese for optimal smoothness, avoiding direct high heat that could cause separation or burning.
- Adjust Italian seasoning and spices to personal taste, considering low-sodium options for health-conscious variations.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg