Lazy Beef & Cheese Skillet

A Cozy One-Pan Dinner Win

When dinner needs to happen fast but you still want something comforting, this Lazy Beef & Cheese Skillet delivers every time. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory ground beef, this one-pan pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or low-effort weekends. Everything cooks together in a single skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax. With bold Italian seasoning, fire-roasted tomatoes, and melty sharp cheddar, every bite feels indulgent without being complicated. If you’re searching for an easy beef pasta skillet that the whole family will love, this is about to become a repeat favorite.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients List

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (ground sirloin recommended)
• ½ medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons sour cream, room temperature
• 2 cups grated sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large deep skillet with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Cheese grater

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it up, until browned.
3. Add onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Season the beef with Italian seasoning, dry mustard, salt, red pepper flakes, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
5. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to coat the beef.
6. Pour in beef stock and tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
8. Add cooked pasta and gently fold to coat everything in the sauce.
9. Stir in cheddar cheese a handful at a time until melted and glossy
10. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

• Make it ahead: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
• Swap the pasta: Shells work great, but rotini or penne also hold the sauce beautifully.
• Add veggies: Stir in frozen peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Extra cheesy: Mix in mozzarella for a stretchier, meltier finish.

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