This cheesy pasta meal prep is a comforting and satisfying lunch that’s perfect for busy workdays. Made with tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is packed with flavor. Served with a side of steamed broccoli, it’s a balanced and delicious meal that reheats beautifully, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats easily for convenient work lunches.
- Balanced & Filling – Combines protein, carbs, and veggies for a complete meal.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – A simple, cheesy pasta dish that everyone will love.
- Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- ½ lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup broccoli (steamed)
Directions
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Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add the Tomatoes & Pasta
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and let them simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and mix well.
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Melt the Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture.
- Stir until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly.
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Steam the Broccoli
- Steam broccoli in a separate pot or microwave until tender.
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Assemble the Meal Prep Containers
- Divide the cheesy pasta into meal prep containers.
- Add steamed broccoli on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 3–4 meal prep containers
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Healthier Option: Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Different Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway, or warm on the stove with a splash of water.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Try mozzarella, Parmesan, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
How do I keep the pasta from drying out when reheating?
Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to maintain moisture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or add extra veggies instead of beef.
What type of pasta works best?
Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli works well in this dish.
How do I make this dish creamier?
Stir in a bit of cream cheese or a splash of milk before serving.
Can I add a sauce to this recipe?
Yes! Marinara, Alfredo, or a light garlic butter sauce would all work well.
What’s the best way to meal prep this dish?
Store pasta and broccoli separately to keep textures fresh, and reheat together before eating.
Is this meal good for kids?
Absolutely! It’s a cheesy, flavorful dish that kids will enjoy.
Can I add beans for extra protein?
Yes! Black beans, kidney beans, or lentils would add extra protein and fiber.
What can I serve with this meal?
A side salad, garlic bread, or a light soup pairs well with this dish.
Conclusion
This cheesy pasta meal prep is a quick, hearty, and delicious lunch option for work. With flavorful ground beef, melty cheese, and a side of steamed broccoli, it’s a well-balanced meal that’s easy to make and store. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a comforting lunch to bring to work, this dish is a must-try. Give it a go and enjoy a simple, satisfying meal anytime!
