One-Pot Ground Beef & Pasta Skillet Dinner

Looking for a hearty, satisfying dinner that doesn’t require a pile of dishes? This Ground Beef and Pasta Skillet Dinner is here to save the day! With simple ingredients, bold flavors, and just one pan, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Family-Friendly: Flavors everyone will enjoy.

Tips for Success

  • Customizable: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
  • Add Veggies: Throw in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients.
  • Spice It Up: For a bolder flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or extra crushed red pepper.

One-Pot Ground Beef and Pasta Skillet Dinner

A Quick and Comforting Meal
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450g ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp olive oil optional, for sautéing
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional for spice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta penne, rotini, or macaroni work great
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth or chicken broth
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or cheddar, for a twist
  • Fresh parsley or basil chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Brown the Beef
    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. If needed, drain excess grease. Set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics
    In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil (if needed) and sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Season & Combine
    Stir in paprika, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Add the browned beef back to the skillet.
  • Add Pasta & Liquids
    Stir in the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and marinara sauce. Mix well, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged in liquid.
  • Simmer Until Tender
    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked to al dente.
  • Cheesy Finish
    Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the skillet. Cover for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
  • Serve & Garnish
    Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp side salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.

Storage & Reheating

  • Store: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid.

This Ground Beef and Pasta Skillet Dinner proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Try it out, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!

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