Simple Beef Pasta Skillet
A quick and flavorful one-pan dish that combines pasta and ground beef for a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (any type) Penne or rotini are recommended for their robust texture
- 1 pound ground beef Lean for a healthier option
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Avocado oil can be used as an alternative
- 1 small onion, finely chopped For sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth
- 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes Preferably with Italian herbs for extra flavor
- 1 cup beef broth Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme
- Salt and pepper To taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheese Mozzarella or cheddar works well
- Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
Instructions
Cooking the pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
Browning the beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sautéing aromatics
- Into the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Combining ingredients
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the natural juices to meld for about 5 minutes.
Adding pasta and cheese
- Toss in the cooked pasta and freshly shredded cheese. Mix everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired creaminess.
Garnishing and serving
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or crumbled tempeh. To enhance the nutritional profile, consider using whole wheat pasta and adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.