Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with Rice: A Hearty One-Pan Dinner

If you're looking for a quick, comforting, and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort and cleanup, look no further than this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with Rice. 

This dish is packed with bold flavors, creamy cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s an all-in-one meal that covers protein, carbs, and vegetables in just one skillet.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples.

• Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to match your taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, if preferred)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

For the Flavor:

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 2 cups beef broth (or water with a bouillon cube)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Carbs:

• 1 cup uncooked pasta (penned, rotting, or macaroni work best)

• ½ cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)

For the Cheese:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

• Extra cheese for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Sauce

Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Then add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Rice

Mix in the uncooked pasta and rice, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta and rice are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Let it melt into the skillet for a creamy, cheesy texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, along with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use the Right Pasta: Short pasta varieties like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work best for even cooking.

• Adjust Liquid as Needed: If the mixture seems too dry before the pasta and rice are fully cooked, add more broth.

• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra red pepper flakes.

• Make It Healthier: Use lean ground beef or turkey and swap white rice for brown rice.

• Add More Veggies: Mix in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella provide great flavor and meltability, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for a twist.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the skillet in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this recipe freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

4. What can I serve with this skillet meal?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?

Of course! Swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

6. How can I make it creamier?

For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese before adding the shredded cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet with Rice is the ultimate comfort food. It’s cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to meal for busy families. With easy customization options and simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Try it out tonight, and let us know how it turns out!