Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option, but keep in mind the flavor will be milder. You might want to boost with extra seasoning or herbs.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat substitutes or cooked lentils for texture, and add extra vegetables to keep it hearty. Use vegetable broth if you add any liquid to keep it vegetarian.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can cook the pasta and beef mixture separately ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and then combine with cheese and melt just before serving for fresh flavor.

What type of cheese works best in this skillet?

Mozzarella is ideal for that perfect stretch and mild flavor, but feel free to mix in cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for different tastes and textures. Just use a good melting cheese.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

Description

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender ground beef, al dente ziti pasta, and melted mozzarella cheese. Enhanced with garlic, onions, chili flakes, and Worcestershire sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies with hearty taste and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 cups ziti pasta cooked (see notes)

Meat and Sauce

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 onion chopped
1/2 cup chopped parsley plus more for garnish
Salt to taste

Cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package directions but reduce cooking time by 1 minute to keep al dente texture. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta thoroughly without rinsing.
Brown Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 2 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned.
Add Seasonings and Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium and season the beef with salt and pepper. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped onions, crushed chili flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, parsley, and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Simmer the mixture for 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens.
Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the beef mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
Melt Remaining Cheese and Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat until the cheese melts, about 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Use leftover cooked pasta if available to reduce cooking time.
If you are cooking pasta fresh, reserve pasta water as instructed to enhance sauce consistency.
Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference or omit for milder flavor.
For a richer taste, you can substitute mozzarella with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
If you prefer less fat, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 580 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 680 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 46 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 39 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg