30-Min Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
A high-protein, budget-friendly weeknight staple that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes. By searing the ground beef to perfection and finishing pasta directly in the sauce, this skillet becomes a cohesive, savory meal perfect for busy families. Every bite balances hearty beef, bright tomato, and melted mozzarella for a comforting experience without the hassle of excessive cleanup.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) Ground Beef (85/15 ratio)
8 oz (225g) Fusilli or penne pasta
1 cup (240ml) Low-sugar marinara sauce
1/2 cup (50g) Shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Water for boiling
1 tbsp salt for pasta water
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta until one minute shy of al dente.
Heat a skillet over high heat and add the ground beef, allowing it to sear without moving to develop a deep crust.
Break the beef into smaller pieces once browned and stir until fully cooked.
Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Lower the heat and add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet.
Add the undercooked pasta to the skillet with a splash of pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
Toss the mixture to allow the starch to bind with the sauce.
Top with shredded mozzarella, cover for 1-2 minutes until melted, and serve hot.
Notes
Use high-quality dry pasta shapes like fusilli or penne as their structure is ideal for holding onto the sauce.
For an extra boost of flavor, sauté minced garlic or onions with the beef once browned.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.