Ground Beef Skillet Cheesy
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A quick and comforting meal, this ground beef skillet is loaded with cheesy goodness and packed with flavor.
This ground beef skillet cheesy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's a one-pan dish that combines hearty ground beef with creamy cheese, making it a family favorite!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and cheesy flavors that appeal to everyone
- Quick and easy preparation in just one skillet
- Perfect for using up pantry staples and leftovers
- Comfort food that warms the soul
A One-Pan Wonder
One of the standout features of this Ground Beef Skillet Cheesy recipe is its simplicity. Everything is prepared in just one pan, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle of multiple dishes.
The concept of one-pan meals has gained immense popularity due to their convenience. This recipe exemplifies that by combining proteins, carbohydrates, and veggies into a single, hearty dish. You can easily customize it with whatever you have on hand, making it a flexible option for any pantry.
Comfort Food at Its Best
There’s something inherently comforting about a cheesy, warm meal. This Ground Beef Skillet Cheesy not only satisfies hunger but also provides a sense of cozy nostalgia. The combination of melted cheddar and savory beef melds together, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Comfort food is all about evoking feelings of happiness and satisfaction, and this skillet dish does just that. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a solo night in. The rich flavors and textures will remind you of home-cooked meals, bringing a sense of comfort to your table.
A Versatile Base
One of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your dietary preferences or use whatever ingredients you have on hand. Substitute ground beef with turkey or even a plant-based option for a lighter or vegetarian meal. Feel free to add in vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
This recipe serves as a fantastic base for experimentation. Want a spicy kick? Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Prefer a creamier texture? Stir in a dollop of cream cheese along with the cheddar. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Skillet Cheesy Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and uncooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef Skillet Cheesy can be enjoyed on its own, but for a complete meal experience, consider adding a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with warm garlic bread for a comforting, hearty feast.
If you want to elevate your meal further, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile, making your dish visually appealing as well.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from this skillet meal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is a breeze; simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You could also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
If you want to freeze leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above for a quick meal.
Nutritional Information
This Ground Beef Skillet Cheesy is not only delicious but also offers a well-rounded meal. With protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the pasta, it provides the energy needed for a busy day. Coupled with the tomatoes and any added veggies, you’re also getting essential vitamins and minerals.
For those watching their nutritional intake, consider using lean ground beef and whole-grain pasta to make the dish healthier. You can also reduce the cheese slightly to lower the calories while still enjoying a flavorful meal that satisfies.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.
→ What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese melts well, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
→ What should I serve with this dish?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread.
Ground Beef Skillet Cheesy
A quick and comforting meal, this ground beef skillet is loaded with cheesy goodness and packed with flavor.
Created by: Morgan Reeves
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Skillet Cheesy Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and uncooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g