Go Back

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a comforting one-pot meal combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 2 cups ziti pasta (cooked) Cooked al dente.
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil A drizzle of high-quality oil.
  • 1 pound ground beef Juicy and flavorful.
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper Brings just the right amount of seasoning.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional) Intensifies the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds depth of flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Provides a rich, tangy base.
  • 1 onion (chopped) onion Sweet onions enhance the taste.
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley (plus more for garnish) Brightens up the flavors.
  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella Creamy and melty, the star of the dish.

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions, reducing the cooking time by one minute to ensure it's al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta without rinsing.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 2 minutes.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Season the browned beef with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped onions, optional chili flakes, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and reserved pasta water.
  5. Allow the mixture to simmer, cooking until the meat is tender and the onions appear translucent, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  6. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet along with 1 cup of the mozzarella, ensuring everything is well coated.
  7. Top the mixture with the remaining mozzarella cheese and cover the skillet with a lid to melt thoroughly.
  8. Before serving, garnish with additional chopped parsley.

Notes

Add chopped bell peppers or spinach for more nutrients and color. If you prefer, omit chili flakes for less spice.