👉Beefy Meatloaf Pasta Skillet – Recipes on a Budget

Beefy Meatloaf Pasta Skillet Recipe

Description:
This Beefy Meatloaf Pasta Skillet is a hearty and comforting one-pan dish that combines the flavors of savory meatloaf with tender pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful skillet meal comes together in under 45 minutes and is packed with delicious ingredients like ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!

Total Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

1 lb lean ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
8 oz uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
Cook the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Add Seasonings & Tomatoes:
Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Then, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
Cook the Pasta:
Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine. Cover the skillet and allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed the sauce.
Finish with Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
Garnish & Serve:
Garnish the pasta skillet with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Variations:

Add Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to add color and flavor to your skillet.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
Cheese Swap: Try using different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique twist.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter alternative, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this meal gluten-free.

Serving Tips:

Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this skillet dish with a simple green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce.
Topping Options: Top with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Make It a Complete Meal: For extra protein, serve with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to fully thaw it before cooking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, like fusilli, rigatoni, or macaroni.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this skillet can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
Can I use canned pasta?
While it’s best to use uncooked pasta, you can substitute with canned pasta if needed, though it may alter the texture.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the beef and vegetables in a slow cooker, then add the uncooked pasta and broth later on.
What can I serve with this dish besides salad?
Try roasted potatoes or steamed broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
Can I use store-bought pasta sauce?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite store-bought pasta sauce in place of the tomato sauce.
How can I make this more flavorful?
Add more spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to elevate the flavor.
Can I substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives?
Yes, you can use plant-based ground meat or lentils as a vegetarian substitute.
How do I keep the pasta from getting too mushy?
Stir occasionally while cooking, and make sure to remove the skillet from the heat once the pasta is al dente.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to give it some heat.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Try using a mix of cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or parmesan for a unique flavor.
What is the best type of beef to use?
Lean ground beef works best for this recipe, but you can also use ground sirloin or chuck.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version of the dish.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can substitute with a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones, just chop them up finely.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I make this dish spicy without affecting the texture?
Yes, just add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced peppers to taste without altering the texture.

20 Best Tips to Make the Perfect Beefy Meatloaf Pasta Skillet:

Use lean ground beef for a healthier option that won’t release too much fat into the sauce.
Brown the meat well for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente when added to the sauce.
Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the skillet.
Adjust the seasoning as you go. Taste and tweak the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor and color.
Opt for high-quality cheese to get that creamy, gooey melt you’re looking for.
Cover the skillet while the cheese melts to keep it moist.
Use a deep skillet to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
Try a mix of meats for more flavor – ground pork or turkey can be added to the beef.
Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant to build a good flavor base.
Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes after cooking so the sauce thickens.
Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Don’t skip the garnish – fresh parsley adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Experiment with different pasta shapes for a fun twist.
Add a dash of hot sauce or pepper flakes for some extra heat.
For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk toward the end.
Serve with a side of greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Top with extra cheese just before serving for a decadent finish.
Make it ahead of time – it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day!