Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta

Cheesy ground beef pasta instantly brings me back to the first winter I moved into my own apartment when I was craving something warm, comforting, and easy enough to make in my tiny kitchen and I remember standing there with a big pot bubbling on the stove and the smell of melting cheese filling the whole space and it felt like a little celebration of independence and simple joy. That night, I sat down with a big bowl, and every cheesy, saucy bite felt like a reward after a long day, making me feel both cozy and accomplished.

I love making this cheesy ground beef pasta because it’s the ultimate one-pan comfort food and it’s hearty, cheesy, and always manages to bring smiles to the table and each time I make it, I get that same warm, nostalgic feeling of being wrapped in a fluffy blanket on a chilly night and whether I’m sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, it always hits the spot and reminds me why I love cooking.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground beef – Adds rich, savory flavor and makes the dish hearty.
• Rigatoni pasta – Perfectly holds onto the sauce and cheese with every bite.
• Onion – Gives the beef a sweet, aromatic base.
• Garlic – Adds depth and a delicious punch of flavor.
• Tomato sauce – Creates a savory, tangy backbone for the sauce.
• Beef broth – Helps create a silky, rich sauce that coats the pasta.
• Cheddar cheese – Melts into a gooey, sharp layer.
• Mozzarella cheese – Adds that stretchy, creamy finish we all love.
• Olive oil – Used to sauté the aromatics and beef.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Fresh parsley – For a pop of color and fresh finish on top.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or deep sauté pan – I use this to cook everything together in one place.
• Wooden spoon – Helps break up the beef and mix in all the cheesy goodness without scratching the pan.
• Large pot – To boil the pasta until just right.
• Strainer – For draining the pasta before adding it to the sauce.
• Sharp knife – For chopping onions and garlic easily.
• Cutting board – A sturdy surface to prepare the aromatics safely.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by cooking the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then I drain it and set it aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until soft and fragrant.

Step 3

I add the garlic and cook for about a minute until it smells amazing.

Step 4

Next, I add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up with my wooden spoon until it’s browned and fully cooked.

Step 5

I pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, then season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes so the flavors come together.

Step 6

I add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and stir until every piece is coated with the savory sauce.

Step 7

Then I sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the pasta and cover the skillet to let the cheese melt completely.

Step 8

Once the cheese is gooey and bubbly, I finish it off with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

If you want a bit of extra spice, I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For an extra cheesy crust, I like to pop the skillet under the broiler for a couple of minutes to get that golden, bubbly top. And if you have leftovers, they make the most comforting lunch the next day!

Ways to Serve

I love serving this cheesy ground beef pasta with a simple side salad to balance the richness, and some garlic bread to scoop up all the extra sauce. You can also pair it with roasted veggies or enjoy it all on its own as a super cozy main dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cheesy ground beef pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop. It holds up beautifully.

Can I freeze cheesy ground beef pasta?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I use a different pasta shape in cheesy ground beef pasta?

Definitely. You can use penne, fusilli, or any pasta that holds sauce well.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this cheesy ground beef pasta a try! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Share your photos or leave a comment below to let me know! And if you loved this recipe, be sure to save it for your next cozy dinner night.

Happy Cooking!