Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Name: Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz of pasta (any type); 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Highlighted under: Fast Table Solutions

I love how quick and satisfying this Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is for weeknight dinners. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up a hearty meal that pleases the entire family. The combination of savory ground beef, al dente pasta, and a zesty tomato sauce is a hit every time. Plus, the one-pan nature means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book! I can see this becoming a regular in our dinner rotation with its simplicity and robust flavor.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:25:13.387Z

Creating this Quick Ground Beef Pasta Skillet has become one of my favorite evening activities. It’s incredible how a few simple ingredients can turn into such a comforting dish. The key definitely lies in the seasoning—don’t shy away from using herbs and spices to infuse deep flavor into the beef and sauce!

What I particularly enjoy is how versatile this recipe is. I've added in various vegetables depending on what I have on hand, like bell peppers or spinach, and it never disappoints! Each time, I find a new way to make it personal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A quick and wholesome meal that’s ready in less than 30 minutes
One-pan dish for effortless cleanup after dinner
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and herbs

Perfecting the Pasta

When choosing your pasta, opt for a shape that can hold onto the sauce well. Shorter pastas like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully in this dish, as they catch the beef and tomato sauce in their crevices. Follow the package instructions for timing but always test a minute or two early. The pasta should be al dente, providing a slight bite that balances well with the tender ground beef.

To enhance the texture of the pasta, consider adding a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water into your skillet before combining the pasta with the meat sauce. This starchy water creates a silkier sauce that clings better to the ingredients, enriching each bite with more flavor.

Enhancing the Flavor

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily enhance the flavor profile by incorporating your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach. Sauté them alongside the onions and garlic for additional depth and nutrition. Aim for about 5 minutes of cooking until they soften but retain some crunch for texture contrast.

Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning. With the Italian seasoning, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity. Adjust according to your taste preferences for a meal that feels tailored to you. Remember to taste as you go, ensuring a perfect balance.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Skillet

8 oz of pasta (any type)
1 lb ground beef
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add Pasta

Stir in the cooked pasta, mixing thoroughly to combine with the sauce and beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Serve the pasta skillet hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips

Feel free to throw in any leftover vegetables you have or swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option!

Storage and Reheating

This pasta skillet is a great candidate for make-ahead meals. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out, stirring gently until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked dish. Ensure it is completely cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. This way, you can pull out individual portions as needed. The pasta may soften slightly when thawed, so a quick stir in a hot pan should revitalize the texture.

Variations and Add-ins

Feel free to mix and match the ingredients according to what you have on hand. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, providing a slightly different flavor but still maintaining the heartiness of the dish. Alternatively, for a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute for equal protein.

For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream just before serving. This addition gives the dish a comforting, rich consistency that pairs wonderfully with the zesty tomato sauce. Topping with fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, right before serving can also brighten the flavors significantly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works great and adds a bit more fiber.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can substitute with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and just heat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.