Quick Italian Skillet Dinner: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan
Quick Italian Skillet Dinner is a hearty one-pan meal made with savory ground meat, tomatoes, pasta or rice, and Italian herbs. Everything cooks together in a single skillet, allowing the ingredients to absorb rich flavors while creating a satisfying dish.The combination of garlic, onions, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning gives the meal its signature taste. Melted cheese on top adds creaminess and richness, making the dish even more comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked pasta or cooked rice
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add pasta with 1½ cups water (or cooked rice). Stir well.
- Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover until melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Italian sausage adds more flavor than ground beef.
- Short pasta like penne or rotini works best.
- Add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Fresh basil enhances the Italian flavor.
- Use low-sodium tomatoes to control salt levels.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- The dish thickens as it cools.
- You can double the recipe easily.