Easy Skillet Beef N' Pasta
A hearty skillet dish combining ground beef, pasta, and melted cheeses, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground round in a large skillet over medium heat for 8 minutes, stirring until it crumbles and is no longer pink; drain well and return to skillet.
- Stir in 3 cups of water and bring to a boil; stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer, stirring often, for 15 to 18 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in pasta sauce; sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Cover and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until cheeses are melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or turkey. If you prefer whole wheat pasta, substitute elbow macaroni with whole wheat elbows for added fiber. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. Adjust the pasta sauce amount based on your preference for sauciness, or use homemade for a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Jello-Ring Salad for a refreshing contrast. Leftovers can also be repurposed into a baked casserole by topping with additional cheese and baking until bubbly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Skillet Beef N' Pasta contains roughly 866 calories, with 92g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (184% of the Daily Value), calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1153mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and pasta mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and add the cheese before reheating. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I substitute for the ground round?
Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute if you're looking for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version, or even lentils for a nutritious twist.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the ground beef. For a smoky flavor, consider stirring in some diced chipotle peppers or a splash of hot sauce into the pasta sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).