Can I use other types of pasta for this skillet recipe?

Absolutely! While ziti is perfect because it holds sauce well, penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni will work nicely too.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, try soy sauce mixed with a small splash of vinegar or even a bit of balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as tasty.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

The key is to undercook the pasta slightly so it finishes cooking in the skillet. Also, avoid rinsing the pasta after draining to keep the starch that helps the sauce stick.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta | Cozy, Quick & Irresistible

Description

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a delicious and hearty one-pan meal featuring tender ground beef simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with garlic, onions, and parsley, then tossed with al dente ziti pasta and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines savory, cheesy goodness with a subtle kick from red chili flakes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 cups ziti pasta cooked (see notes)

Beef Mixture

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1/2 teaspoon 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: Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions for al dente minus 1 minute. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta but do not rinse it to preserve the starch for the sauce.
Brown Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook while breaking it up with a wooden spoon for about 2 minutes until it begins to brown.
Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and season the beef with salt and pepper. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped onions, crushed red chili flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, chopped parsley, and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water (or plain water if preferred). Let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
Toss Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well with the beef mixture. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese to combine thoroughly.
Finish and Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Leftover cooked pasta works great for this recipe; if unavailable, cook fresh pasta following the instructions provided.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red chili flakes according to taste.
Make sure not to overcook the pasta initially as it will continue to cook in the skillet.
If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
Fresh parsley adds brightness, but dried parsley can be used in a pinch (use half the amount).

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 600 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg