Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight: A Comfort Food Favorite
Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish packed with savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheddar cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or need a quick meal, this recipe is sure to please. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a perfect one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup without compromising taste.
Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight
This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a rich and satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 300 g rotini pasta (or any short pasta of your choice)
- 400 g ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Why These Ingredients Work
- Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or another short pasta.
- Ground Beef: Provides the dish with a savory, protein-rich base.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds creaminess and a sharp, tangy kick.
- Tomato Paste: Enhances the depth of flavor with a rich, concentrated tomato taste.
- Milk and Beef Broth: These create a creamy sauce while keeping the dish light and savory.
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these simple steps to create a perfect Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
4. Incorporate the Tomato Paste
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the flavor, giving the beef mixture a rich, tangy base.
5. Create the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup beef broth and 1 cup milk, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring until each piece is coated in the beefy sauce. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
7. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight warm, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat or a touch of smoked paprika for depth.
- Pasta Alternatives: Try whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options to suit dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines the best of classic comfort foods: hearty pasta, cheesy goodness, and a rich, savory sauce. It’s:
- Kid-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters who love cheesy, meaty flavors.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to sneak in extra nutrition.
Nutrition Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight is a meal the whole family will love. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner table. Try it tonight, and savor the cheesy, beefy deliciousness!