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One-Pan Ground Beef Recipes for Busy Moms Reducing Kitchen Cleanup

One-Pan Ground Beef Skillet Pasta for Busy Moms

This hearty one-pan ground beef skillet pasta is the perfect quick and comforting weeknight dinner for busy families. Made with juicy seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese, this easy one-pan recipe delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup. It is budget-friendly, family-approved, and ideal for moms who want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 cups uncooked short pasta penne, rotini, or shells
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 can 14 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 1 can 15 ounces tomato sauce
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater (if using fresh cheese)
  • Lid for skillet

Method
 

Step 1
  1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2
  1. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3
  1. Add diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until softened.
Step 4
  1. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5
  1. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 6
  1. Add uncooked pasta directly into the skillet. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the liquid.
Step 7
  1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Step 8
  1. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
Step 9
  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef if preferred.
Whole wheat pasta may be used for added fiber.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat with a small splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.