Name: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup diced white or yellow onion; 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 pound 90% to 93% lean ground beef; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 15 ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 8 ounce can tomato sauce; 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; 1 cup chopped mushrooms; 2½ cups dry pasta, like fusilli or penne ((about 8 ounces))

Introduction to Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Are you in search of a quick and satisfying dinner option that the whole family will love? Look no further than the ground beef pasta skillet. This one-pan meal is a game-changer for busy weeknights, delivering incredible flavors without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Why a Ground Beef Pasta Skillet?

Why not whip up a hearty dish that combines proteins, veggies, and carbs all in one go? Skillets are not only convenient, but they also allow you to get creative with what you have on hand. From zucchini to mushrooms, feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables, tailoring the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

With a solid protein base from ground beef, this skillet is packed with essential nutrients, making it a balanced choice. According to the USDA, lean ground beef provides high-quality protein that can help you meet your daily nutritional needs. Plus, the inclusion of whole ingredients like fire-roasted tomatoes and Italian seasoning adds depth and richness that will leave your taste buds dancing.

So, whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this ground beef pasta skillet promises a comforting, delicious meal in around 30 minutes. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Creating a delicious ground beef pasta skillet is a breeze when you have the right ingredients on hand. Start with the essentials that not only enhance the flavors but also make your meal comforting and hearty. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil: A great base for sautéing your veggies.
1 cup diced white or yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
1 cup diced zucchini: A nutritious way to sneak in some extra veggies.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: Because everything is better with garlic!
1 pound lean ground beef (90 to 93%): The protein powerhouse of the dish.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to bring those Italian vibes.
½ teaspoon salt: To enhance all the flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: A must for that little kick.
15-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds a smoky taste.
8-ounce can tomato sauce: For that rich, saucy texture.
1 cup low-sodium beef broth: Keeps everything nice and moist.
1 cup chopped mushrooms: Earthy flavor and additional nutrition.
2½ cups dry pasta (like fusilli or penne, around 8 ounces): The heart of your skillet dish.

Having these ingredients ready will make whipping up your ground beef pasta skillet a delightful and straightforward process! Check out this comprehensive guide on prepping ingredients to learn more about efficient cooking.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Creating a delicious Ground Beef Pasta Skillet is a fun and satisfying way to bring a hearty meal to your table, especially after a long day at work. Follow these easy steps to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time!

Sautéing the Vegetables

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 cup of diced onion and 1 cup of zucchini. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the zucchini is fork-tender. Then, toss in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma should fill your kitchen and hint at the delicious meal about to unfold! If you enjoy recipes like this, you might find these sautéing tips helpful.

Cooking the Ground Beef

Next, it's time for the star of the show: the ground beef. Add 1 pound of 90% to 93% lean ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up as it cooks. Stir it occasionally until the meat is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the pan. Don't worry too much about getting all of it, but aim for a cleaner skillet for the best flavor. You can season the beef with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste, enhancing those savory notes.

Combining the Sauces and Pastas

Now it's time to bring in the rich flavors! Add 15 ounces of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, 8 ounces of tomato sauce, and 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth to the skillet. Add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms and 2½ cups of dry pasta—like fusilli or penne—and stir everything together to ensure that the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. The mixture should start bubbling gently; if you’re curious about the nutritional benefits of incorporating mushrooms, check out this informative piece.

Simmering to Perfection

Cover your skillet and reduce the heat to low, letting the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes. This step allows the pasta to absorb juicy flavors and soften to al dente perfection. Make sure to stir occasionally and check for doneness. Once the pasta is cooked, you’re ready to serve your delicious Ground Beef Pasta Skillet! The combination of flavors will surely impress anyone who digs in. You can even add some grated cheese or fresh herbs on top for an extra touch.

Grab a bowl, serve yourself, and enjoy the comforting goodness of this meal!

Variations on Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Mexican-style Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Spice up your weeknight dinners with a Mexican-style ground beef pasta skillet! Simply replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, and add black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers. Top it off with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro for a vibrant twist. If you're looking for inspiration on Mexican flavors, check out resources like Chili Pepper Madness for tips on bringing heat and zest to your plates.

Vegetarian Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

For a delicious vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based meat alternative. Incorporate extra vegetables like spinach or eggplant for added flavor and nutrition. This vegetarian ground beef pasta skillet is not only hearty but also satisfying, perfect for those Meatless Mondays or when you want to enjoy a lighter meal. Discover more veggie-based recipes at Forks Over Knives to expand your culinary repertoire.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

When making your ground beef pasta skillet, start by choosing lean beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor. Brown the meat well to develop a nice crust—this adds depth to your overall taste. You can mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Don’t rush the simmering time; it allows the pasta to absorb the delicious flavors. For added creaminess, consider stirring in a dollop of cream cheese or a sprinkle of parmesan at the end.

Seeking storage tips? This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep! Check out resources from Allrecipes or Food Network for more pasta cooking tips.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

When it comes to enjoying your ground beef pasta skillet, think beyond just serving it as is. Here are some creative and delicious ideas to elevate your meal:

Pair with Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread not only complements the richness of the dish but also adds a satisfying crunch.
Fresh Salad: Serve your skillet with a crisp garden salad or Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast. The greens will balance the hearty flavors beautifully.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before serving. Allow it to melt for that extra touch of indulgence.
Add Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with chopped basil or parsley brings a burst of fresh flavor and a vibrant pop of color.

For more tips and tricks, check out the benefits of incorporating veggies into your meals at Healthy Eating! Enjoy your meal!

Time Breakdown for Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Preparation Time

Getting started with your ground beef pasta skillet is a breeze! You’ll only need about 10 minutes to chop your veggies and gather your ingredients.

Cooking Time

Once you're prepped and ready to go, the cooking process takes approximately 25 minutes. This includes sautéing, simmering, and letting all those delicious flavors meld together.

Total Time

In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a hearty and satisfying meal for your busy weeknights. Perfect for anyone looking to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!

Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

When it comes to meal planning, understanding the nutritional profile of your dishes is essential. Let's dive into the ground beef pasta skillet, an easy and heartwarming dish perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Calories

A serving of this delicious skillet packs around 715 calories. It’s a filling meal that provides energy, making it ideal for those long days when you need a boost!

Protein

With a whopping 46 grams of protein, the ground beef pasta skillet is a great way to support muscle repair and overall health. Whether you're hitting the gym or just want to stay energized, this dish has your back.

Sodium

Keep in mind, it contains approximately 1241 mg of sodium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth and pairing it with fresh veggies to enhance flavor without the extra salt. For more on the effects of sodium on health, check out this WebMD article.

In summary, this ground beef pasta skillet isn’t just easy to make; it’s also packed with nutrients that can fuel your busy lifestyle. Enjoy this satisfying dish and feel good about what you’re putting on the table!

FAQs about Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! While this ground beef pasta skillet recipe shines with the richness of beef, you can switch things up. Lean turkey or chicken can be excellent alternatives, offering a lighter flavor yet still satisfying. For a vegetarian version, consider crumbled plant-based meat or extra beans.

How can I make it more nutritious?

Enhancing the nutritional value of your ground beef pasta skillet is a breeze. You might add:

Additional veggies: Spinach, bell peppers, or carrots can incorporate more vitamins.
Whole grain pasta: Swap out regular pasta for whole-grain options to boost fiber.
Beans or lentils: Add these for extra protein and fiber without drastically changing the dish's flavor.

What should I serve with it?

This skillet dish is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light green salad (such as a simple arugula salad) can add freshness and balance out the hearty flavors. If you’d like to explore more pairing ideas, check out this resource on perfect pasta pairings from BBC Good Food.

Conclusion on Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

This ground beef pasta skillet is a perfect blend of flavors and nutrients, making it an ideal weeknight meal. With minimal ingredients and one-pan simplicity, you'll save both time and effort in the kitchen. Enjoy this dish with friends and family for a delightful dinner experience!