Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and satisfying meal, the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet combines savory beef and tender pasta in a one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ottilie James

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:03:43.208Z

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is not only quick to make but also packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce creates a comforting dish that everyone will love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy nights
  • Savory flavors that please both kids and adults
  • Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite veggies

The Comfort of One-Pan Meals

One-pan meals are a lifesaver for busy families. They simplify the cooking process by limiting the number of pots and pans you need to clean. With the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, you can create a delicious, filling meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup afterward. This dish brings together savory ground beef and pasta in a single skillet, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.

Moreover, one-pan meals are incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt this Ground Beef Pasta Skillet to fit your family's preferences. Whether you prefer a heartier dish or a lighter option, you can swap out ingredients to cater to your tastes. Adding seasonal vegetables or experimenting with different pasta shapes can turn this recipe into a personalized delight.

Perfect for Family Dinners

The Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings families together. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a hit with both kids and adults. As you gather around the table, the aroma of sautéed garlic and beef fills the air, inviting everyone to dig in. It's a meal that encourages conversation and connection, making it ideal for family dinners.

Additionally, the ease of preparation makes it a great choice for teaching kids how to cook. With minimal supervision, they can assist in measuring ingredients, stirring the skillet, and even garnishing with Parmesan cheese. This involvement can foster a love for cooking in young ones and create lasting memories in the kitchen.

Customization and Variations

One of the best features of the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is its adaptability. You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can seamlessly blend into the recipe, adding both nutrition and color. This flexibility makes it a perfect base for incorporating seasonal produce, ensuring your meals are fresh and exciting.

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat. Alternatively, try switching out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. The options are endless, allowing you to reinvent this meal time and again while keeping it delicious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 8 oz pasta (your choice)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Ground Beef Pasta Skillet:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta to the skillet, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Pasta Skillet!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is a breeze. You can warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to loosen it up. Alternatively, use the microwave for quick reheating. Just be sure to cover it to prevent drying out, and you'll have a satisfying meal ready in minutes.

Nutritional Information

This Ground Beef Pasta Skillet not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced meal. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Combined with pasta and tomatoes, it provides carbohydrates for energy and vitamins for overall health. Each serving is packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for family dinners.

For those watching their calorie intake, consider using whole wheat or legume-based pasta for added fiber and nutrients. This small swap can enhance the health benefits of the dish without compromising on flavor. Always remember to balance your plate with vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient intake, ensuring a well-rounded meal.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook them when you're ready to eat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

A hearty and satisfying meal, the Ground Beef Pasta Skillet combines savory beef and tender pasta in a one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Ottilie James

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 8 oz pasta (your choice)
  3. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  4. 1 cup beef broth
  5. 1 onion, chopped
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. 2 tbsp olive oil
  10. Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Step 02

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.

Step 03

Add the pasta to the skillet, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 04

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 32g