One-Pan BBQ Beef Pasta Recipe

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a delightful twist on a classic favorite: a savory one-pan BBQ beef pasta. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a hassle-free, tasty meal that captures the rich flavors of homestyle barbecue in a single skillet. Packed with hearty beef, tangy BBQ sauce, and comforting pasta, this dish promises to be a hit with the whole family.

Growing up, my grandmother always made sure that family dinners were a time for connection and warmth. She had this innate talent for transforming simple ingredients into culinary magic. One of my fondest memories is watching her whip up her signature skillet meals that left everyone at the table satisfied and together. This one-pan BBQ beef pasta, inspired by her spirit of innovation and love, has become a staple in my own home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pan BBQ beef pasta stands out due to its simplicity and full-bodied flavor. You’ll appreciate:

• Easy Cleanup: Using just one pan minimizes dishwashing, letting you enjoy a leisurely post-dinner conversation.
• Quick Preparation: This meal comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: Each bite is a delightful mix of tender beef, spicy BBQ sauce, and al dente pasta.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this wholesome, tangy dish.

Ingredients Notes

Pay attention to these key ingredients to ensure the best results:

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish flavorful yet not greasy.
• BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce that matches your taste preference, whether sweet, spicy, or smoky.
• Pasta: Penne and rigatoni work well to soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Cheese: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a luscious, melty topping.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat, if necessary.

Step 2

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the BBQ sauce, mixing until the beef is well coated.

Step 3

Add the uncooked pasta and enough water to cover the pasta. Stir occasionally and bring to a simmer.

Step 4

Continue cooking for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5

Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes before serving hot.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to maintain moisture and microwave in intervals. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra mushrooms for a hearty texture.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This BBQ beef pasta is ideal for casual family dinners or potluck gatherings. Pair it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. It can also be served at BBQ-themed parties, offering guests a warm, comforting option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute any short pasta, like fusilli or macaroni, which will hold the sauce well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What’s the best way to add spice? If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes, or use hot BBQ sauce. You can also garnish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Can this dish be made ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the dish and refrigerate. It can be reheated before serving. For best results, wait to add cheese until just before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.

One-Pan BBQ Beef Pasta Recipe

A quick and delicious one-pan BBQ beef pasta that's perfect for weeknight dinners. Loaded with flavor and easy to make.

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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 pound ground beef 85% lean
• ▢ 1 cup BBQ sauce choose your favorite
• ▢ 0.5 cup onion diced
• ▢ 3 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 2 cups beef broth
• ▢ 8 ounces rotini pasta uncooked
• ▢ 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt to taste
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon black pepper to taste
• ▢ 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
• Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in BBQ sauce, beef broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Add the penne pasta, stir well to combine, and cover. Reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
• Turn off the heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and let sit for a few minutes until the cheese has melted.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.