This Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender rotini pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce. I love how quickly it comes together in one pan, making it a perfect weeknight meal that satisfies every craving for something rich and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like how this recipe balances flavors beautifully — the tang of tomato sauce, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the savory notes from ground beef and garlic. It’s quick, requires simple ingredients, and delivers a comforting, home-cooked flavor that feels special without being complicated. Plus, I only need one skillet, which makes cleanup so easy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces rotini pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Directions
I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, I reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then set the pasta aside.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat, add the ground beef, and cook while breaking it apart until it’s nicely browned. If there’s excess grease, I drain it.
I add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté them for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Next, I stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, letting everything simmer for about 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.
I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir it gently so the sauce coats every piece. If it feels too dry, I pour in a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the perfect creamy consistency.
Finally, I sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce turns silky and rich.
I serve it warm, sometimes adding extra Parmesan on top for a little extra flavor.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
For a spicy kick, I add crushed red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
I mix in some chopped spinach or bell peppers to boost the veggies.
If I want a creamier texture, I stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I reheat it, I add a splash of milk or water and warm it on the stove over low heat until it’s hot and creamy again. It also reheats well in the microwave, covered, for about 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
How can I make this pasta even cheesier?
I add more cheddar or mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness. The combination of different cheeses makes it even more indulgent.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, I often use penne, fusilli, or shells when I don’t have rotini. Any pasta that holds sauce well will work perfectly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I can cook the beef and sauce mixture ahead, then store it separately. When ready to serve, I cook the pasta fresh and combine everything.
What can I serve with this pasta?
I like serving it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a full, comforting meal.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, I let it cool completely, then freeze it in portions. When I want to eat it, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet is one of my go-to recipes when I crave something hearty, creamy, and satisfying. I love that it’s simple to make, uses pantry staples, and pleases everyone at the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish always hits the spot.
Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet is a hearty one‑pan meal featuring rotini pasta, seasoned ground beef, a rich tomato‑cheese sauce, and a creamy finish—perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that comes together quickly.
Ingredients
12 ounces rotini pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Then drain the pasta and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until nicely browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the onion is softened and garlic is fragrant.
Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes to develop the flavors.
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta in the sauce. If it seems too dry, pour in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach a creamy consistency.
Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes silky and rich.
Serve immediately, optionally topping with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for garnish.
Notes
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
For more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or swap cheddar for pepper Jack cheese.
Add chopped spinach or diced bell peppers for added vegetables.
For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese just before serving.
