Description
Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients:
8 oz rotini or any pasta of your choice
1 lb ground beef
1/2 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Flavor: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce. Mix well until the pasta is coated with the sauce.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the pasta. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
This cheesy, meaty pasta is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed guide. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped (onion chopped, garlic minced, cheese shredded). Use a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to combine everything later. When browning the beef, don’t rush—allow it to develop a slight crust for deeper flavor before draining fat. For the sauce, let it simmer uncovered to thicken slightly, which concentrates the taste. When combining, toss the pasta gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated before adding the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish stands well on its own but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up any extra sauce. For a vegetable side, try steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. To make it a complete comfort-food spread, pair it with simple roasted vegetables.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook and drain your pasta. In a large skillet, brown ground beef, then add onion and garlic. Stir in tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings, then simmer. Combine the sauce with the cooked pasta. Top with cheeses, cover to melt, garnish, and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time and draining as needed.
How can I make this dish creamier? Stir in 1/4 cup of cream cheese or heavy cream with the tomato sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish but hold the cheese. Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if dry, then add cheese to melt.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little broth to restore moisture.
Is there a way to add more vegetables? Easily. Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms when sautéing the onions. Spinach can be stirred in just before adding the cheese to wilt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta al dente as it will continue to soften when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Not Draining Beef Fat: Leaving too much fat can make the final dish greasy. Drain excess fat after browning.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Shred cheese from a block for smoother melting.
- Rushing the Simmer: Skipping the sauce simmer time prevents flavors from melding and the sauce from properly thickening.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta is the epitome of a reliable, comforting weeknight meal. It’s endlessly adaptable to your pantry and preferences, from the protein to the vegetables you include. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a consistently delicious, family-friendly dish that satisfies with its hearty beef, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly melted cheese. It’s simple cooking that delivers maximum flavor every time.