Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a quick and satisfying one-pan meal loaded with flavor. Hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and melted mozzarella come together in a savory tomato-garlic sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
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2 cups ziti pasta, cooked (undercook by 1 minute for a firmer texture)
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1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
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1 pound ground beef
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 medium onion, chopped
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½ cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
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Salt, to taste
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
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Cook the pasta: Boil the ziti according to package instructions, but reduce cooking time by 1 minute for al dente texture. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Do not rinse the pasta.
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Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 2 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Reduce heat to medium.
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Build flavor: Add black pepper, garlic, chili flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, chopped onion, and parsley. Stir to combine. Add reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, until beef is tender and sauce is thickened.
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Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.
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Melt and finish: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top. Cover with a lid and let sit for 1 to 2 minutes, until cheese is melted.
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Serve: Garnish with extra parsley and serve hot.
Notes
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Pasta tip: Undercooking the pasta by one minute prevents it from getting too soft when reheated in the skillet.
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No ziti? Penne, rigatoni, or rotini make great substitutes.
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Cheese upgrade: Try mixing in sharp cheddar or provolone for a flavor twist.
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Spice control: Skip the chili flakes for a milder version or double them for more heat.
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Meal prep: Leftovers store well and reheat great for lunch the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American