Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal when you want something hearty, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. This simple one-pot recipe combines tender ground beef, pasta, savory tomatoes, and creamy cheese into a dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2-3 cups chicken broth or beef broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 ½ cups pasta sauce
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 3 cups medium pasta shells or rotini
• 4 ounces processed cheese loaf such as Velveeta

Instructions

• Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
• Drain the fat from the cooked ground beef.
• In a 12-inch skillet, combine the cooked ground beef, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and pasta.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
• Cook for 14-16 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
• Add the processed cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.
• Serve hot and enjoy.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

• Serve immediately for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
• Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Storage Tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
• This dish can be frozen before adding cheese. Thaw and add cheese when reheating.
• Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the pasta tender and the cheese creamy.

Variations

1. Spicy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta
   • Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering the pasta.
   • For extra heat, use a spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
2. Vegetable-Packed Cheesy Pasta
   • Add diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped spinach during the simmering step.
   • This boosts both flavor and nutrition while keeping the dish one-pot.
3. Creamier Cheesy Pasta
   • Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk along with the cheese.
   • This makes the sauce extra rich and silky.
4. Cheddar or Mozzarella Version
   • Replace Velveeta with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
   • Top with extra cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden, bubbly finish.
5. Ground Turkey or Chicken Version
   • Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner dish.
   • Season with extra Italian herbs to maintain robust flavor.
6. Italian Herb Explosion
   • Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a pinch of garlic powder for a stronger herb flavor.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for freshness.
7. One-Pot Taco-Style Pasta
   • Add 1 tablespoon taco seasoning to the beef while browning.
   • Top with diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and shredded cheddar for a Tex-Mex twist.
8. Bacon Lover’s Cheesy Pasta
   • Cook 4-5 strips of chopped bacon until crispy and add it in during the final cheese step.
   • The smoky flavor adds a rich depth to the pasta.
9. Mushroom & Spinach Delight
   • Sauté mushrooms before adding beef, then stir in fresh spinach at the end.
   • This variation is earthy and flavorful without overpowering the cheesy sauce.
10. Pasta Bake Version
    • After cooking the pasta with the sauce, transfer to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
    • Perfect for meal prep or a comforting family dinner.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, rotini, penne, fusilli, or any medium pasta shape works well. Adjust cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your pasta sauce and broth are gluten-free.
3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version. Season well to maintain flavor.
4. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
   You can freeze before adding the cheese. Thaw completely and add the cheese when reheating.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, slightly undercook the pasta and store the mixture in the fridge. Reheat and add cheese just before serving.
6. How can I make it creamier?
   Add a splash of milk, cream, or half-and-half along with the cheese to make the sauce extra creamy.
7. Can I add vegetables?
   Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be added during the simmering step.
8. How can I make this spicy?
   Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
9. Can I use shredded cheese instead of Velveeta?
   Yes, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend works well. It may change the texture slightly.
10. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta is a quick, comforting, and versatile one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a creamy, cheesy finish, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the many variations, this recipe delivers hearty flavor and easy cleanup. It’s a reliable go-to for a satisfying dinner that comes together in 30 minutes or less.

Print