Beef Pasta Veggie Skillet Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 8, 2025

If you’re craving a hearty, wholesome meal that combines the best of tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and comforting pasta all in one skillet, you’re in for a treat! This Beef Pasta Veggie Skillet recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner solution that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity — it brings together colorful veggies, perfectly cooked pasta, and savory ground beef in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a balanced and satisfying option that everyone will love.

Beyond just being delicious, this recipe packs a punch with a variety of vegetables that add freshness, texture, and nutrition. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have in your fridge.

Ready in under 40 minutes, this skillet dinner is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef Pasta Veggie Skillet recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. First, it’s a complete meal in one pan, which means less mess and fewer dishes to wash.

The combination of ground beef and pasta creates a filling, protein-packed base, while the assortment of vegetables adds essential vitamins and a burst of color.

It’s incredibly flexible — swap in your favorite veggies or use whatever you have on hand. The flavors meld beautifully with simple seasonings, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Plus, it’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something tasty on the table fast. This recipe also reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

Finally, it’s a great way to sneak extra veggies into your family’s diet without sacrificing flavor. For more wholesome, veggie-packed meal ideas, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (choose lean or regular based on preference)
  • 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work great)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (for a subtle kick)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Grater (if using block cheese)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
  5. Season the mixture: Sprinkle in the oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
  6. Combine pasta and broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cooked pasta and baby spinach. Cover the skillet and allow the spinach to wilt and the flavors to meld, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Add cheese (optional): Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover again until the cheese melts, about 2 minutes.
  8. Serve: Give everything a final stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, straight from the skillet.

Tips & Variations

For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, or use plant-based ground “meat” for a vegetarian version.

You can also swap out the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit your dietary needs. Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, carrots, or peas to increase the nutritional value.

If you prefer a saucier dish, add a half cup of marinara sauce or canned diced tomatoes along with the broth. For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving.

Want to spice things up? Check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to make your own chili blend perfect for this dish.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 450 kcal
Protein 30 g
Carbohydrates 40 g
Fat 15 g
Fiber 5 g
Sodium 600 mg
Vitamin A 60% DV
Vitamin C 70% DV

Serving Suggestions

This Beef Pasta Veggie Skillet is wonderful served on its own for a complete meal. However, pairing it with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread elevates the dining experience.

For a lighter touch, try a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. If you want to add more protein, a side of roasted chickpeas or a boiled egg can complement the dish nicely.

For more delicious, wholesome meal inspiration, explore our collection of Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals and Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.

Conclusion

This Beef Pasta Veggie Skillet recipe is a shining example of simple ingredients coming together to create a delicious, nourishing meal. With minimal prep and one-pan cooking, it’s ideal for busy nights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

The balance of protein, veggies, and pasta ensures it’s filling and wholesome, while the vibrant colors and fresh flavors keep every bite exciting.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or making dinner for yourself, this recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes and pantry staples. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting goodness of this skillet meal — it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

📖 Recipe Card: Beef Pasta Veggie Skillet

Description: A hearty and colorful one-pan meal combining ground beef, pasta, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1 cup zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef, cook until browned and crumbled.
  4. Stir in bell peppers and zucchini, cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Add penne pasta, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
  7. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for additional 2 minutes.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 480 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 40 g

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Marta K

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