Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that brings a touch of indulgence to your dinner table. This delightful recipe features al dente penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce complemented by the savory notes of lean ground beef and aromatic garlic. It’s a go-to meal for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. Perfect for the whole family, Creamy Ground Beef Pasta promises a satisfying meal that even picky eaters will love.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe for Creamy Ground Beef Pasta ticks all the boxes: it’s quick, budget-friendly, and totally customizable! Whether you’re in need of a weeknight dinner that can be whipped up in about 30 minutes or searching for a crowd-pleaser for a family brunch, this dish rises to the occasion effortlessly. It’s comforting yet elegant enough to serve to guests.
"I whipped this up during a busy week, and my family devoured it! The creamy sauce is so delicious, and the leftovers were just as good the next day." – Sarah J.
Preparing Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
The process of creating this creamy delight is straightforward and enjoyable. Start by boiling your pasta, then sauté onions and garlic to build a fragrant base. Follow that with browning the beef and finishing with a luscious cream sauce that comes together seamlessly. It’s a step-by-step affair that even novice cooks can master with ease.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for a delicious Creamy Ground Beef Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil
Feel free to switch up the cheese or pasta type based on your preferences!
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these directions to make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain, but reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, then sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, add ground beef, and cook until browned (about 6–8 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat if needed, keeping the flavorful browned bits in the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Toss the cooked penne into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the delicious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with more reserved pasta water.
- Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve Creamy Ground Beef Pasta in generous bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to balance the rich flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light, tangy slaw to cut through the creaminess.
Storage and reheating tips
To store your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or extra cream to revive the creamy sauce, heating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, try using freshly grated cheese for a smoother, creamier texture. If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic is a fine substitute, but fresh garlic will offer a more robust flavor. For a hint of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different ingredients—swap the lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. For a gourmet touch, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or a dash of white wine to the sauce.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time?
Prep time for this dish is about 10 minutes, while cooking takes around 20 minutes, making the total time around 30 minutes.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as rigatoni or fusilli—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat alternative, and use a plant-based cream and cheese for a vegetarian option.
Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is not only a delightful meal to savor but also an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire, bringing joy and satisfaction to your dining experience. Give it a try tonight!
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Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and indulgent dish featuring al dente penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce with lean ground beef and aromatic garlic, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain, but reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, then sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, add ground beef, and cook until browned (about 6–8 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat if needed, keeping the flavorful browned bits in the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Toss the cooked penne into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the delicious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with more reserved pasta water.
- Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian