If you need a quick and comforting dinner that does not require a long list of ingredients, this 5 ingredient cheesy ground beef skillet is a great recipe to keep on repeat. It combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning into one easy skillet meal.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling, family-friendly, and budget-friendly without spending too much time in the kitchen. Everything cooks in one pan, which also means less cleanup.
If you enjoy hearty pasta dinners, you may also like this creamy beef pasta recipe.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with just 5 simple ingredients
- Perfect for busy weeknight dinners
- One-pan recipe with easy cleanup
- Cheesy, hearty, and family-friendly
- Budget-friendly and easy to customize
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow pasta, uncooked
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
Looking for more beef dinner ideas? This hamburger recipe is another easy option.
How to Make 5 Ingredient Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 2: Add the Seasoning
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir well for about 30 seconds. This helps bring out the flavor and gives the beef a richer taste.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Pasta
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, then add 2 cups of water. Stir everything together. Add the uncooked elbow pasta and mix well so the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir once or twice during cooking to make sure the pasta does not stick.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot while the cheese is melted and the pasta is fresh. This dish is best enjoyed straight from the skillet.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Skillet
Use a large deep skillet so the pasta has enough room to cook evenly.
Stir the pasta once or twice during simmering to prevent sticking.
If the mixture looks too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash of water and continue cooking.
For extra flavor, garnish with chopped parsley or a little grated Parmesan before serving.
For another simple family meal, check out this hobo casserole ground beef recipe.
Easy Variations
Make it spicy:
Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Use a leaner meat:
Swap ground beef with ground turkey if you want a lighter option.
Add extra flavor:
You can mix in a little garlic powder or onion powder if you want to build on the basic recipe.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If needed, add a small splash of water while reheating to loosen the sauce.
Serving Ideas
This cheesy ground beef skillet pairs well with:
- garlic bread
- a simple green salad
- roasted vegetables
- steamed broccoli
If you want a different weeknight beef meal, try this beef and broccoli recipe.
