Name: Italian Beef Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1/2 medium onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 cup uncooked macaroni noodles; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp garlic salt; 1 1/2 cups beef broth; 1/4 cup marinara sauce mix; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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This Italian Beef Pasta Skillet is the ultimate one-pan wonder—hearty, cheesy, and ready in just 25 minutes. Made with ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, it’s an easy and satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights. With just one pan to clean and a whole lot of flavor, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Italian Beef Pasta Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet pasta dish has everything you want in a quick dinner:

Made in one pan—easy cooking and easy cleanup
Ready in just 25 minutes
Hearty and filling thanks to beef, pasta, and cheese
Loaded with Italian flavor from tomato sauce, marinara, and seasonings
Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
Uses pantry and fridge staples
Easily customizable with vegetables or spices
Makes great leftovers for lunch
Melty cheese topping seals the deal
Comfort food that doesn’t require a lot of effort

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 cup uncooked macaroni noodles
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1/4 cup marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook until beef is fully browned and vegetables are tender. Drain excess fat and return the skillet to the stove.
Add the tomato sauce, uncooked macaroni, tomato paste, garlic salt, beef broth, and marinara sauce to the pan. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Stir the mixture, then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover again for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Once the cheese is gooey and melted, serve hot and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 5 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara for extra heat.
Add veggies: Stir in mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
Different cheese: Try cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta when adding the cheese.
Use ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the beef for a leaner option.
Pasta alternatives: Use penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta instead of macaroni.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes, or reheat in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta shape like rotini, shells, or penne will work. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger skillet or Dutch oven to handle the extra volume.

What’s the best marinara sauce to use?

Any jarred or homemade marinara sauce you enjoy will work. Choose one with herbs for more flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it’s mild and family-friendly. You can add heat with crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, but the melted mozzarella adds a creamy, gooey finish that makes the dish extra comforting.

What if I don’t have tomato paste?

You can skip it or substitute with a bit of ketchup or extra marinara in a pinch.

Do I need to cook the pasta separately?

Nope! The pasta cooks right in the sauce, which saves time and builds flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it stores and reheats well. Just reheat gently and add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes. Cool completely before freezing in portions. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Italian Beef Pasta Skillet is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something filling, flavorful, and fast. Made in one pan with simple ingredients and topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s a weeknight dinner everyone will ask for again. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping lunches ahead of time, this comforting dish delivers big taste with minimal effort.

Molly