Description
Ground beef pasta skillet delights diners with a hearty, one-pan meal packed with savory flavors. Melted cheese and perfectly seasoned beef create a comforting dinner that satisfies you quickly and deliciously.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef (or ground turkey)
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Liquid Base:
- 2 cups uncooked short pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, penne)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a spacious skillet, thoroughly brown ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Eliminate any accumulated grease.
- Introduce finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and aromatic, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate uncooked pasta, beef broth, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Thoroughly combine all ingredients.
- Elevate mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce temperature to low. Cover skillet and allow to simmer, occasionally stirring, for 13-14 minutes until pasta reaches al dente consistency.
- Remove from heat and swiftly fold in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan, ensuring complete melting and creating a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Optional: Embellish with additional cheese sprinkles or freshly chopped herbs. Serve piping hot directly from the skillet for maximum flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier dish.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition and color.
- Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options for dietary preferences.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt content and accommodate heart-healthy diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg