Description
This hearty and comforting one-pot pasta dish combines ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of Italian seasonings with tender pasta, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy family dinner, it’s flavorful, satisfying, and made entirely on the stovetop for convenience.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow or penne)
- 2 cups water or beef broth
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Season the Meat: Season the browned beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Add Tomatoes, Pasta, and Liquid: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, uncooked pasta, and water or beef broth. Stir everything together to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Incorporate the Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and evenly mixed. Then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Melt Cheese and Garnish: Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to fully melt. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or other vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor.
- This dish reheats very well and makes excellent leftovers for quick meals later in the week.