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Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

A quick and comforting one-pan dinner featuring ziti pasta, ground beef, aromatic garlic, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups ziti pasta (cooked) Cooked until al dente.
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil For sautéing the beef.
  • 1 pound ground beef Juicy and succulent.
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper For seasoning.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) Aromatic addition.
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes Optional for spiciness.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce For umami flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste For tanginess.
  • 1 onion (chopped) onion Provides sweet undertones.
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley Plus more for garnish.
  • To taste salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella For creamy texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by cooking the ziti pasta according to the package directions, but reduce the cooking time by one minute to retain an al dente texture. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet heated over high heat, add the olive oil and introduce the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon while it cooks, letting it brown for about 2 minutes.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then mix in the minced garlic, chopped onion, crushed red chili flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and reserved pasta water.
  4. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the meat is tender and flavors meld together.
  5. Gently toss in the cooked pasta along with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the pasta, cover with a lid, and let sit on low heat for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
  7. Just before serving, garnish with additional chopped parsley.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Feel free to add chopped vegetables for more nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.