This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a comforting, quick meal that combines tender pasta, a rich, velvety sauce, and flavorful ground beef—all cooked in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a cozy meal that satisfies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this dish irresistible? It’s easy to prepare with minimal cleanup, thanks to the one-pot method. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and creamy cheese is simply perfect. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—you can swap in your favorite pasta shape or sneak in extra veggies for added nutrition!
Ingredients
(Tip: Full ingredient list and measurements can be found in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions
- Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart into smaller pieces (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat. - Add Aromatics and Seasonings
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper for a burst of flavor. - Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. - Add the Pasta
Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth or water if the mixture becomes too dry. - Make It Creamy
Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta with a creamy, cheesy texture. - Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, then serve warm. This dish is always a hit!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Lean Option: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Boost: Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Dairy-Free: Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture, then gently heat in a pan or microwave.
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FAQs
- How can I prevent the pasta from sticking while cooking?
Stir the pasta occasionally and ensure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Add more liquid if necessary. - Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes! Freeze it for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Note that the creamy sauce may slightly change texture when reheated. - What pasta works best?
Sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work best as they hold up well in the creamy sauce. - Can I use a different cheese?
You can replace Parmesan with mozzarella, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor. - Can I make it healthier?
Use lean ground beef or turkey, whole wheat pasta, and light cream for a healthier option. Adding more vegetables boosts its nutritional value.
Conclusion
This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a true comfort food! Quick to make, easy to clean up, and full of rich, creamy flavor, it’s the perfect dish for any night of the week
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