If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines hearty flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness, Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta is your new best friend. This dish blends perfectly cooked pasta with savory ground beef simmered in a rich tomato and beef broth sauce, all topped with a luscious mix of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. It’s a one-pot wonder that feels like a warm hug on a plate, incredibly satisfying and so simple to whip up on any night of the week.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta recipe plays an essential role, creating a balance of textures and flavors that feel both rustic and indulgent. From the perfectly al dente pasta to the rich blend of cheeses, every component is simple but crucial to making this dish a family favorite.

8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.

1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base that’s rich in protein and flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds just enough richness to sauté the aromatics without overpowering the dish.

1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth when cooked down with garlic.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic punch.

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs: Offers a zesty, herbaceous tomato base to the sauce.
1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and amplifies the beefy flavor for a robust sauce.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Gives a sharp, creamy texture that melts into the sauce.

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings a stretchy, gooey element that’s perfect for any cheesy pasta.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential to season and balance the flavors throughout.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that adds a fragrant, classic Italian touch.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking your pasta just right is key—it should be al dente to have that slight bite that holds up well against the rich sauce. Drain it well and set aside, ready to soak up all the delicious flavors coming next.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics to Build Flavor

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add your diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step lays down a flavor foundation that makes the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta so satisfying and well-rounded.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to your skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the beef until it’s browned through and cooked thoroughly, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it off for a cleaner sauce.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to marry the flavors and reduce slightly for a richer sauce.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses

Turn the heat low and gradually fold in cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and melded into the sauce, creating that dreamy, luscious texture you want in your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with your cheesy beef sauce. Toss everything until the pasta is coated evenly, ensuring every bite bursts with cheesy, saucy goodness. Once well combined, it’s ready to plate and enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta instantly. Try sprinkling chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and herbal brightness. A few red pepper flakes can add a nice touch of heat if you like a bit of a kick. Don’t forget a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese for even more savory richness.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing side dishes. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are terrific for soaking up any extra sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, add balance and vibrant color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta in individual oven-safe dishes with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and extra cheese on top, then broil until golden and bubbly. Alternatively, turn it into a baked casserole layered with extra cheese for a crowd-pleasing party dish. You can also tuck the pasta inside large hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful and appealing presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and rich flavors. Leftovers often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Freezing

Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy this dish later. Place your cooled Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to evenly redistribute the cheese. Adding a splash of beef broth or water helps loosen the sauce and keeps it creamy. Microwaving works too—heat in short bursts, stirring in between, for an even warm-up.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne and rotini are recommended because their shapes hold the sauce well, you can use any pasta you like. Just make sure to adjust cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly without losing flavor.

What cheeses work best in Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta?

Cheddar and mozzarella are ideal for their meltability and flavor contrast, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or fontina for different twists. Mixing a bit of Parmesan on top adds a sharp finish.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Simple! Add some crushed red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce. These additions complement the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Can I prepare parts of the recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can cook the pasta and prepare the meat sauce a day in advance, then combine and melt the cheese just before serving. This shortens your mealtime prep and keeps the dish tasting fresh.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta is a true comfort food classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With simple ingredients transforming into a cheesy, meaty, and utterly delicious meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—it’s the kind of dish that warms the heart as much as the stomach!

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 10 reviews

Author: Noah

Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

This comforting Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta combines tender pasta with a savory ground beef and tomato sauce, all melted together with rich cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for a hearty weeknight meal, this dish is flavorful and easy to prepare.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring and breaking up the meat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.

Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the skillet, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the cheesy beef mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

Serve: Serve the Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.

Fresh basil or parsley makes a great garnish to enhance flavor and presentation.
Make sure to not overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds better when mixed with sauce.
For a richer sauce, you may add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese when melting the cheeses.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course

Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1/4 of recipe)

Calories: 550 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 480 mg

Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g

Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fiber: 4 g

Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: cheesy ground beef pasta, beef pasta recipe, cheesy pasta with beef, easy dinner recipes, comfort food pasta