Beef and Pasta Skillet Recipe: Easy and Satisfying
After a long day, quickly prepare a satisfying beef and pasta skillet meal. This hearty dish requires just a few ingredients like ground beef, penne, and marinara.
It's perfect for busy nights when you need something simple yet delicious. The key to a creamy texture lies in the mozzarella, transforming your kitchen into a haven of comforting flavors.
Key Takeaways
- The recipe features ground beef, penne pasta, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and beef broth for a flavorful meal.
- It's a one-pan dish, making it ideal for quick preparation and minimal cleanup on busy weeknights.
- The dish offers robust, comforting flavors with a creamy, gooey texture from melted mozzarella cheese.
- Cooking time is approximately 15-20 minutes, making it an efficient choice for satisfying meals.
- Suitable for all cooking skill levels, the recipe is straightforward and family-friendly.
Recipe
Experience the delightful simplicity of a Beef and Pasta Skillet, a perfect dish for busy weeknights. With just five essential ingredients, this recipe offers a comforting meal that's both quick and delicious. Ground beef, pasta, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese come together in a single pan to create a flavorful, hearty dish. The combination of robust flavors and minimal ingredients makes it a go-to option for those seeking a satisfying meal without the hassle.
The process is straightforward, beginning with browning the ground beef and ending with melting mozzarella cheese over tender pasta. The rich marinara sauce melds beautifully with the beef and pasta, while the beef broth adds depth and ensures the pasta cooks to perfection. This one-pan meal not only saves on cleanup but also ensures a cozy and fulfilling dining experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups beef broth
To prepare this dish, start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat, then add the pasta, marinara sauce, and beef broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, cover again, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
For optimal results, use a deep skillet or large pan with a tight-fitting lid. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well. Serve the dish immediately for the best texture, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add small amounts of hot water until you achieve the desired consistency.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Cooking Steps
Let's get cooking with this delicious Beef and Pasta Skillet!
Start by browning the ground beef thoroughly in a large skillet to build a rich, savory base for your dish.
Once that's done, add the pasta and liquids, then let them simmer until the pasta is tender; top it all off with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt perfectly before serving immediately for the best texture.
Step 1. Brown Ground Beef Thoroughly
Mastering the art of browning ground beef is crucial for developing the rich flavors in your beef and pasta skillet.
You'll want to start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it's hot, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Let it cook without stirring for a few minutes to allow a nice, brown crust to form. This step is essential for adding depth to your dish.
Stir the beef occasionally, ensuring it's browned evenly. Watch closely to prevent burning, but don't rush—let those flavors develop!
Once there's no pink left, drain the excess fat. This simple step elevates the dish, making it more satisfying and delicious.
Enjoy the aroma as your kitchen fills with savory goodness!
Step 2. Add Pasta and Liquids
After you've thoroughly browned the ground beef, it's time to combine the pasta and liquids to create the dish's hearty base.
Grab your favorite skillet, and let's get cooking! Add your penne pasta directly into the skillet, followed by the rich marinara sauce and savory beef broth.
The combination of these ingredients will infuse the pasta with incredible flavor as it cooks. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
This step is crucial for allowing the pasta to absorb all those delicious juices, enhancing every bite. Now, bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Feel the excitement as the aromas fill your kitchen, promising a cozy and satisfying meal. You're just a few steps away from culinary delight!
Step 3. Simmer Pasta Until Tender
The aroma of your simmering skillet will soon fill the kitchen as you let the pasta cook until tender. This is the moment when your dish truly comes together, with the penne soaking up the flavors of the rich marinara sauce and savory beef broth.
Keep the heat low and cover the skillet, allowing the pasta to cook gently for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
You'll know it's ready when the pasta reaches a perfect al dente texture, offering just the right amount of bite. This step is essential, as it melds all the ingredients into a harmonious, delightful meal that's both satisfying and delicious, promising a comforting dinner everyone will love.
Step 4. Melt Mozzarella Cheese
Once the pasta is perfectly tender, it's time to add the finishing touch with mozzarella cheese.
Grab that cup of shredded mozzarella and sprinkle it generously over the bubbling skillet. Watch with anticipation as the cheese begins to melt, transforming the dish into a cheesy masterpiece.
Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes, allowing the mozzarella to melt completely. The heat trapped inside will work its magic, creating a gooey, stretchy layer that's irresistible.
As the cheese melts, it marries beautifully with the flavors of the rich marinara and savory beef beneath. This step not only adds a creamy texture but also elevates the overall taste, making every bite a delightful experience.
Your skillet is now ready to impress!
Step 5. Serve Immediately for Best Texture
With the mozzarella melted to perfection, it's time to dish out the Beef and Pasta Skillet while it's piping hot. This is where the magic happens—serving the dish right away ensures you enjoy the creamy, gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta at their best.
As soon as you lift the lid, the rich aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around eagerly.
When you serve immediately, the pasta remains tender, and the sauce stays just right—not too thick, not too thin. Delaying could cause the pasta to absorb more liquid, changing the texture and balance.
Final Thoughts
Anyone can appreciate the simplicity and flavor this Beef and Pasta Skillet brings to the table.
It's a delightful dish that effortlessly transforms a handful of ingredients into a satisfying meal. Imagine the joy of serving a hearty dinner that warms the soul, without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe's beauty lies in its straightforwardness, making it perfect for cooks of any skill level.
As you savor each bite, you'll find the rich, comforting flavors mingling together seamlessly.
It's not just dinner; it's an opportunity to create cherished moments around the table.
So, gather your ingredients and bring this dish to life. You'll discover that sometimes, the simplest recipes deliver the most memorable and enjoyable culinary experiences.
[DIRECTIONS]:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Ground Beef With Another Protein?
Absolutely, you can substitute ground beef with another protein!
Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even ground pork for a richer flavor.
You can also use plant-based crumbles if you're looking for a vegetarian twist.
Simply follow the same cooking steps, and you'll have a delicious and satisfying meal.
Experimenting with different proteins can add a new dimension to your dish, keeping it exciting and fresh!
What Pasta Shapes Work Best for This Dish?
You're going to love experimenting with pasta shapes for this dish! Penne is a great choice because it holds the sauce well, but you can also try rotini or fusilli.
Their spirals capture the delicious flavors beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, even farfalle works with its fun, bow-tie shape.
Each shape offers a slightly different texture and experience, making your meal both exciting and satisfying. Dive in and enjoy your culinary adventure!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
So, you're ditching the gluten, huh? No worries, it's easier than you think!
Swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, perhaps a delightful quinoa or rice pasta. Ensure your marinara sauce and beef broth are certified gluten-free, as sneaky gluten can hide there too.
Now, embrace the joy of cooking, knowing deliciousness still awaits! Your skillet's gonna rock the gluten-free universe, delivering taste and satisfaction without compromise!
Are There Any Recommended Vegetable Additions?
You can easily elevate your dish by adding vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition!
Try tossing in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These veggies complement the rich meat and sauce beautifully.
Just add them when you're browning the beef, letting them soften and soak up the delicious flavors.
Don't be afraid to experiment with your favorites, like spinach or broccoli, for a personalized twist that makes every bite satisfying!
Can I Freeze Leftovers for Later Use?
Did you know that freezing meals can save you up to 5 hours a week?
You can absolutely freeze your skillet leftovers! Once cooled, transfer the dish into airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Label them with the date, and they'll keep well for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or microwave.
It's an easy, stress-free way to enjoy a delicious meal later!
