Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Highlighted under: Quick Meal Shortcuts
I love how convenient this Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is for busy evenings. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a hearty meal in about 30 minutes. The combination of savory beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce makes for a delightful dish that my family adores. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this skillet dish never disappoints. I can't wait to share it with you!
When I first made this Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The key was cooking the pasta and beef simultaneously, which not only saved time but also allowed the flavors to meld beautifully. I enjoyed watching my kids come back for seconds—that's always a win in my book!
The star of this dish is really the seasoning. I used a blend of Italian herbs that I keep on hand, which elevated the simple ingredients to something savory and satisfying. It’s a lifesaver for nights when I want a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation for busy evenings
- One-pan cooking means less cleanup
- Flavorful and hearty, perfect for the whole family
The Benefits of One-Pan Cooking
One-pan meals like this Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet are a game changer, especially after a long day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and efficiency, as everything comes together in a single skillet. This not only saves you time but significantly reduces the number of dishes to wash afterward. As you prepare the pasta and sauce simultaneously, you can also relax knowing that cleanup will be a breeze.
Using only one pan helps concentrate the flavors, as the pasta absorbs the savory notes from the browned beef and rich tomato sauce. This method allows the beef's natural juices to meld seamlessly with the other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. It’s important to regularly stir the mixture in the skillet to prevent sticking and to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
Ingredient Insights
Ground beef is the cornerstone of this dish, providing rich flavor and protein; however, feel free to swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you opt for a meat alternative, be sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as these tend to cook faster. The choice of pasta is also flexible; while classic elbow macaroni works well, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free varieties for a healthier twist.
Crushed tomatoes and beef broth not only create a delicious sauce but also serve as hydration for the pasta. Adding an extra splash of broth while simmering can keep the dish moist, especially if you prefer a soupier consistency. For an added flavor boost, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like oregano or thyme, which pairs beautifully with the Italian seasoning.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
Ingredients for Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta
In a large skillet, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
In the same skillet, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Vegetables and Sauce
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Combine Everything
Fold in the cooked pasta, mixing well to combine with the sauce and beef. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to heat through.
Serve
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the taste.
Make-Ahead Tips
This pasta skillet recipe is excellent for meal prepping, and it can easily be made a day in advance. Simply prepare the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to revitalize the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
You can also freeze leftovers for even longer storage. To do this, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this skillet dish can be as simple or as gourmet as you like. For a quick weeknight dinner, pair it with a side salad and some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. If you want to elevate the meal, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for color and a burst of freshness.
Additionally, this recipe can be customized with various toppings. A dollop of ricotta cheese can add creaminess, while sautéed spinach or mushrooms can enhance its nutritional value while retaining the delicious flavors.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes.
→ What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta shape will work, but I prefer rotini or penne for better sauce adherence.
→ Is this recipe freezable?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ How can I make this vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian option.
Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
I love how convenient this Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is for busy evenings. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a hearty meal in about 30 minutes. The combination of savory beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce makes for a delightful dish that my family adores. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this skillet dish never disappoints. I can't wait to share it with you!
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Quick Meal Shortcuts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Fold in the cooked pasta, mixing well to combine with the sauce and beef. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to heat through.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g