Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Name: Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups uncooked pasta (like penne or fusilli); 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Speedy Meal Ideas

I love this Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet because it's the perfect solution for busy weeknights when I want something hearty but simple to make. With just a few ingredients and one pan, I can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. The flavors blend beautifully, and it’s easy to customize with whatever veggies I have on hand. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, which means I can spend more time enjoying my meal rather than washing up afterward.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:13:11.016Z

Creating this Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet was an experiment in finding balance between speed and flavor. I decided to toss everything into one skillet to maximize flavor while minimizing dishes. The key to making this dish so delicious lies in browning the beef well before adding the pasta and sauce, which enhances the overall taste. I also love adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra umami kick!

While testing it multiple times, I discovered that using a combination of beef broth and canned tomatoes brings the dish to life, making it savory and comforting. If I’m feeling adventurous, I sometimes throw in extra veggies or spices, turning this versatile dish into something new each time. It's a real lifesaver for quick weeknight dinners!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Customizable with your favorite vegetables
Rich, savory flavors come together quickly

      

Choosing the Right Pasta

For the Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, selecting the right type of pasta can enhance the dish. I recommend using shapes like penne or fusilli, which hold the sauce well and add a nice texture. Cooking the pasta directly in the skillet not only simplifies the process but also infuses it with flavor from the broth and tomatoes. If you're short on time, you can even use pre-cooked pasta—just add it in the final minutes of cooking to warm through.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta. While they may alter the texture slightly, they will still absorb the flavors beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cook time, as these alternatives may have different boiling durations compared to traditional pasta.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The addition of Worcestershire sauce might seem subtle, but it significantly enhances the savory depth of the dish. If you're looking to elevate the flavor even further, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika for an unexpected twist. These additions can amplify the richness and complexity, making each bite memorable.

Fresh herbs can also brighten the dish. Beyond the recommended parsley for garnish, you could incorporate fresh basil or oregano during the simmering process. This will add a fragrant quality and can make the meal feel even more homemade. Just be careful to adjust the salt levels accordingly, as fresh herbs can sometimes mask saltiness.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Skillet

1 pound ground beef
2 cups uncooked pasta (like penne or fusilli)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
1 cup beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Add Ingredients

Stir in the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite Italian seasoning blend. Also, feel free to mix in veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition!

Serving Suggestions

This pasta skillet can easily stand on its own, but serving it with a fresh green salad or crusty bread can make for a well-rounded meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil before serving can also enhance the flavors further. If you're hosting, consider offering a side of garlic bread for dipping into the delicious sauce left in the skillet.

For a heartier version, you can fold in some cooked spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. This not only adds nutritional value but also provides a lovely contrast in texture and flavor, making the dish more vibrant.

Storage and Reheating Tips

The Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet makes for excellent leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up while it heats through.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This dish freezes well, but be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this skillet meal freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work best, but you can use any pasta you have on hand.