When time is short but your hunger is big, nothing beats a steaming bowl of Easy Ground Beef Pasta. This recipe combines hearty, seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, savory sauce into a dish that’s not just fast—it’s absolutely irresistible. With a cook time of under 30 minutes and minimal cleanup, this one-pan wonder is a weeknight dinner lifesaver.
Whether you’re feeding picky kids, ravenous teens, or just want something comforting and quick for yourself, this dish will become a go-to staple in your meal rotation.
Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
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One pot, less mess
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Ready in under 30 minutes
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Made with simple, affordable ingredients
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Customizable with pantry staples
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Family-friendly and kid-approved
This is the kind of meal you can whip up with your eyes closed and still impress anyone who takes a bite.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s everything it takes to bring this hearty pasta dish to life:
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1 pound ground beef
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8 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or shells)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
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1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for richer flavor)
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2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon paprika (optional for depth)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 cups beef broth or water
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
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Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Add the chopped onion and cook until the meat is browned and onions are soft—about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Pasta
Stir in the pasta and make sure it’s mostly submerged. Cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Add Cheese and Finish
Sprinkle cheese over the top and stir until melted. If you like it extra cheesy, add a bit more on top and cover with a lid to melt for a few minutes.
6. Serve Hot
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately. A little fresh-cracked pepper or red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor even more.
Variations to Try
This base recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here’s how you can customize it to your taste or what’s in your pantry:
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Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives.
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Add veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
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Change the cheese: Try parmesan, gouda, or pepper jack for a twist.
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Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a scoop of cream cheese before adding the shredded cheese.
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Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
Tips for Success
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Don’t overcook the pasta—taste it at the 12-minute mark.
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Use a pot or pan that has a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and cook evenly.
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For a thicker sauce, let the pasta rest uncovered for a few minutes after cooking.
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Want it saucier? Add an extra ½ cup of broth or a spoonful of marinara.
Why This Ground Beef Pasta Is a Winner
There’s nothing fancy or fussy about this dish—and that’s what makes it so great. It’s reliable, affordable, and endlessly adaptable. Every bite is packed with savory, meaty flavor, cheesy richness, and tender pasta that soaks up every bit of the sauce.
Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this easy ground beef pasta is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t take hours to make.
Serving Ideas and Leftovers
Serve it with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or even roasted vegetables. It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunches or leftovers.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Just add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring it back to life.
Final Thoughts: Weeknight Dinner Just Got Better
There’s a reason this Easy Ground Beef Pasta is a weeknight staple across so many homes. It’s a fuss-free, budget-friendly, and mouthwateringly good meal you’ll crave again and again.
So the next time you’re staring at a pack of ground beef and wondering what to make—this is it. Your new favorite go-to recipe is just one pan away.
