Beef & Pea Pasta Skillet (Irish-Style)

Beef & Pea Pasta Skillet is a hearty, comforting one-pan dish inspired by rustic Irish cooking. It features ground beef, sweet peas, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce—all simmered together for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines simplicity with bold, familiar flavors. It uses inexpensive ingredients, comes together quickly in one skillet, and offers a well-balanced mix of protein, carbs, and vegetables. The sweet peas contrast beautifully with the savory ground beef, and the cheesy sauce ties it all together. Ideal for meal prep or a comforting midweek dinner, this recipe is both convenient and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon butter or oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups short pasta (such as penne, shells, or rotini)

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half

• 1½ cups frozen peas

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess grease.
Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the dry pasta, beef broth, and milk. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the frozen peas and shredded cheddar. Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and the peas are heated through.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Makes approximately 4 generous servings.
Prep time is about 10 minutes, cook time around 25 minutes, making the total time roughly 35 minutes.

Variations

– Use ground lamb or pork instead of beef for a different flavor.
– Add diced carrots or leeks for extra vegetables and Irish flair.
– Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for more richness.
– Use Irish cheddar for an even more authentic taste.
– Swap peas for chopped green beans or frozen mixed vegetables if preferred.

Storage / Reheating

Let leftovers cool before storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
To reheat in the microwave, cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until hot.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used. Add them a few minutes earlier than frozen ones to ensure they cook through.

What pasta shape works best?

Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells work best because they hold onto the sauce and are easy to mix in a skillet.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are also gluten-free.

Is this a traditional Irish dish?

It’s Irish-inspired, using familiar ingredients like peas, beef, and cheddar, with a modern one-skillet twist.

Can I double the recipe for a larger family?

Yes, just be sure to use a large enough skillet and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Can I use leftover roast beef instead of ground beef?

Yes, chop or shred it finely and add it after the onions have softened, just before the pasta goes in.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is classic, but you could also try Irish Dubliner, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for extra flavor.

Can I use cream instead of milk?

Yes, for a richer version you can use heavy cream or half-and-half.

Will this work with egg noodles?

Yes, though egg noodles cook faster than other pastas, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes. Skip the beef, add extra peas or beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Conclusion

Beef & Pea Pasta Skillet (Irish-Style) is a cozy, flavorful meal that brings together pantry staples in a rich, creamy dish that feels both rustic and satisfying. It’s a great way to feed a family on a budget without sacrificing flavor or comfort. Whether you’re craving a warm, one-pot dinner or looking to try something with a bit of Irish character, this dish delivers every time.

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