why make this recipe
This Cheesy Beef Pasta is simple, fast, and filling. You can make it on a weeknight and feed a family with little fuss. If you like other easy pasta meals, you might also enjoy this creamy ground beef bowtie pasta as another simple option: creamy ground beef bowtie pasta in alfredo sauce.
introduction
This dish mixes browned beef, vegetables, tomato sauce, and cheese with rotini pasta. It uses common ingredients and cooks in about 30 minutes. For more one-pot style comfort meals, see this easy beef and cheddar ranch pasta recipe: creamy one-pot beef and cheddar ranch pasta.
how to make Cheesy Beef Pasta
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and diced peppers. Cook until the beef is brown and the vegetables are soft, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook one more minute. Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors. Meanwhile, cook the rotini until al dente and drain. Mix the pasta into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top and stir until the cheese melts and spreads through the pasta. Serve hot.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions :
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- Add ground beef, diced onions, and diced green and red bell peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma and flavor.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture and stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout.
- Serve the Cheesy Beef Pasta hot, garnished as desired, and enjoy your comforting meal.
how to serve Cheesy Beef Pasta
Serve hot in bowls. Add extra cheddar on top if you like. A green salad or garlic bread works well on the side. For another pasta side idea, try this Velveeta beef pasta with bowtie noodles: Velveeta beef pasta with bowtie noodles.
how to store Cheesy Beef Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Cheesy Beef Pasta
- Use lean ground beef to cut fat and keep the sauce from getting greasy.
- Drain extra fat after browning the beef if needed.
- Cook pasta just to al dente so it does not get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Stir in the cheese off the heat to prevent oil separation.
- For a different flavor, see this Asian-style ground beef noodle recipe for contrast ideas: Asian ground beef noodles.
variation (if any)
- Swap rotini for penne or bowtie pasta.
- Use mozzarella or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder cheese.
- Add mushrooms or frozen corn with the peppers for extra veggies.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter dish.
- For a creamier version try a small splash of cream or a spoon of cream cheese stirred in at the end.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this without onions or peppers?
A: Yes. Skip them or replace with other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Q: Can I use different pasta shapes?
A: Yes. Penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta all work well.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when you add the peppers.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: Yes. Cook and cool, then store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Yes. Freeze in a container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
If you want another quick skillet version with similar flavors, check this Cheesy Beef Pasta Skillet – The Hungry Bluebird for more ideas and variations.
Cheesy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef, diced onions, and diced green and red bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the sauce simmers, cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
- Mix the cooked rotini into the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture and stir until the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, garnished as desired.