Ground Beef French Onion Pasta Skillet

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups beef broth
• 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini, penne, or shells)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

3. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. This is crucial for the French onion flavor.

4. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.

6. Add the pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.

7. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half of the Gruyere cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

9. Top with the remaining Gruyere and Parmesan cheese.

10. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Alternatively, broil in the oven for a minute or two to melt and brown the cheese (watch carefully to avoid burning).

11. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

The Allure of One-Pan Cooking

Why a Skillet Meal?

Skillet meals have exploded in popularity, and for good reason. They offer convenience, minimize cleanup, and allow for delicious, flavorful combinations in a single vessel. This Ground Beef French Onion Pasta Skillet is no exception. It captures the comforting flavors of French onion soup in an easy-to-make, family-friendly format. One-pan meals are perfect for busy weeknights.

The French Onion Twist

The magic of this dish lies in its inspiration: classic French onion soup. The deeply caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and gooey Gruyere cheese create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. By combining these elements with ground beef and pasta, we transform a beloved soup into a hearty and satisfying meal.

Benefits of Skillet Cooking

Cooking in a skillet offers several advantages. First, it simplifies the cooking process, reducing the number of pots and pans you need to wash. Second, it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully as everything cooks in the same pan. Finally, skillet meals are often quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for weeknight dinners.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground Beef: The Foundation

Ground beef provides a rich and savory base for this skillet dish. Choose lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to minimize grease. For enhanced flavor, consider using ground chuck, which has a higher fat content. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but adjust seasoning accordingly.

Onions: Caramelized Perfection

The onions are the heart and soul of this recipe. Slicing them thinly and cooking them slowly until they are deeply caramelized is crucial for achieving the authentic French onion flavor. Don’t rush this step! Patience is key to unlocking their sweetness and depth of flavor. Use yellow or sweet onions for the best results.

Cheese: Gruyere’s Creamy Melt

Gruyere cheese is a classic choice for French onion soup, and it works beautifully in this skillet dish. Its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and excellent melting properties make it the perfect topping. If you can’t find Gruyere, you can substitute Swiss cheese or a blend of Swiss and mozzarella.

Pasta: The Starch Powerhouse

Choose a short pasta shape like rotini, penne, or shells that will hold its shape during cooking. These shapes also capture the delicious sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the skillet after the broth is added.

Customizing Your Skillet

Protein Variations

While ground beef is the star of this recipe, you can easily adapt it to your preferences. Ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or crumbled plant-based ground meat substitutes. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Adding Vegetables

Boost the nutritional value of this skillet by adding extra vegetables. Mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are all great additions. Add them to the skillet along with the onions, or stir in spinach towards the end of cooking.

Spice It Up

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the thyme. You can also use a spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a bolder flavor. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add depth and complexity.

Broth and Seasoning Adjustments

You can use chicken broth instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor. Be sure to taste the broth and adjust the seasoning accordingly. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to achieve your desired flavor profile. A bay leaf added during simmering can also enhance the flavor.

Tips for Skillet Success

Achieving Perfect Caramelization

The secret to truly amazing French onion flavor is perfectly caramelized onions. Cook them slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply golden brown and sweet. This process takes time, but it’s worth the effort. Adding a pinch of sugar can help speed up the caramelization.

Preventing Sticking

To prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet, stir it frequently during cooking. Make sure there’s enough liquid to cover the pasta. If the skillet seems dry, add a little more broth. Using a non-stick skillet can also help prevent sticking.

Cheese Melting Mastery

For perfectly melted cheese, cover the skillet tightly after adding the cheese and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey. Alternatively, you can broil the skillet in the oven for a minute or two, but watch carefully to avoid burning the cheese.

Resting Time Matters

Allowing the skillet to rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld together and the pasta to absorb any remaining liquid. This results in a more flavorful and satisfying dish.

Serving and Storage

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef French Onion Pasta Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be served with a side salad or crusty bread. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the skillet. A warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.

Freezing Considerations

While this skillet is best served fresh, it can be frozen for longer storage. Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The pasta may become slightly softer after freezing.

Reheating Techniques

When reheating, add a little broth or water to the skillet to prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through. You may need to add a little more cheese to freshen up the flavor.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While Gruyere is the classic choice, you can substitute Swiss, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the skillet up to the point of adding the cheese and then refrigerate it. Add the cheese just before baking or broiling.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Just choose a short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or bow ties.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir frequently during cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid. A non-stick skillet can also help.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would be great additions.