If you’re craving a quick, comforting, and downright irresistible weeknight dinner, Cheesy Beef Pasta is about to become your new go-to favorite. This dish brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, vibrant tomatoes, and a hearty double dose of melty cheese to create a one-pan meal that’s pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or just want delicious leftovers for tomorrow, Cheesy Beef Pasta is packed with flavor, comes together in just 30 minutes, and is guaranteed to put smiles around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cheesy Beef Pasta lies in its simple, everyday ingredients—each one plays a special role in building layers of flavor and texture. From creamy cheeses to robust tomatoes and perfectly seasoned beef, here’s what you’ll need and why they matter.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): The heart of the dish, bringing savory richness and satisfying protein.
- Uncooked Pasta (2 cups, penne, rotini, or elbow): Choose your favorite shape—perfect for catching all that cheesy sauce.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and aromatic depth right from the start.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Boosts the overall flavor with its classic punch.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Bring brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
- Tomato Sauce (1/2 cup): Helps create a luscious, cohesive sauce.
- Italian Seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Blends herbs for a subtle, classic Italian flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and depth.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a little extra heat.
- Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Melts into the sauce for bold, tangy creaminess.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Delivers those signature gooey, stretchy cheese pulls.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Starts the sauté and brings everything together with a silky texture.
- Chopped Parsley (optional): A fresh, colorful finish that brightens the whole dish.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your favorite pasta shape in salted water until it’s perfectly al dente. Give it a quick drain and set it aside—you want it ready to soak up all the cheesy, beefy goodness later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and let it soften for a couple of minutes, then add the garlic for just 30 seconds more. This builds a glorious base of flavor that makes Cheesy Beef Pasta truly sing.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, letting it brown and release its savory juices. Once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess grease so your dish stays rich but not oily.
Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let everything simmer together for 5 to 7 minutes—this gives the flavors time to mingle and transform into a robust, hearty sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet, stirring to coat every piece in that delicious sauce. Lower the heat, then sprinkle in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir gently until the cheese melts into a creamy, dreamy blanket that clings to every bite. Your Cheesy Beef Pasta is ready to serve hot and fresh!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Pasta
Garnishes
Finish your Cheesy Beef Pasta with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note. If you want to get a little fancy, a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds another layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but it absolutely shines alongside a simple green salad tossed with lemony vinaigrette or a basket of warm, crusty garlic bread. For a wholesome meal, add roasted veggies like broccoli or bell peppers on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Cheesy Beef Pasta in individual ramekins and broiling them for a bubbly, golden top. Or, pile it high in a big serving bowl family-style and let everyone dig in. Leftovers also make a fantastic filling for stuffed bell peppers or baked pasta casseroles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cheesy Beef Pasta keeps well for up to 3–4 days, and the flavors just get better as they mingle.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, scoop into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm Cheesy Beef Pasta on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot and bubbly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne, rotini, or elbow work perfectly, feel free to substitute with whatever pasta you have on hand. Just aim for a shape that holds sauce well.
How can I make Cheesy Beef Pasta creamier?
For an extra creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese just before adding the shredded cheeses. It makes the sauce luxuriously silky.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms are wonderful additions. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the beef.
Is Cheesy Beef Pasta spicy?
By default, it’s mild and family-friendly, but the optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat. Adjust or omit them to suit your spice preference.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The stovetop is ideal for reheating, as it helps the pasta stay creamy. Just add a splash of water or milk to keep things saucy and stir until heated through.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a hearty, cheesy, and utterly comforting meal, give this Cheesy Beef Pasta a spot on your dinner rotation. It’s easy enough for busy nights but satisfying enough to feel like a treat—so grab your skillet and dive in!
Print
Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful cheesy beef pasta recipe that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner. Ground beef is cooked with tomatoes and Italian seasoning, then combined with perfectly cooked pasta and melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for a creamy, delicious meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
Tomato Base
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheeses
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Others
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer on medium-low heat for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the tomato and beef mixture.
- Add and Melt Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and the sauce is creamy and cheesy.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy beef pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired for added freshness and color.
Notes
- Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese when adding the cheeses.
- Leftovers reheat well and make a convenient next-day meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
