Creamy Beef Pasta
There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of pasta, especially when it’s coated in a rich and creamy sauce. Creamy Beef Pasta is my go-to dish for a busy weeknight or a quick get-together with friends. It marries lean ground beef with sumptuous heavy cream, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an indulgent yet easy-to-prepare meal that will leave your taste buds singing. Trust me; this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, offering a quick fix for those moments when you crave something hearty and satisfying.
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the biggest draws of this Creamy Beef Pasta is its incredible simplicity. It’s a one-skillet wonder that brings together comforting flavors in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, or anytime you need a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The balance of savory beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness makes it kid-approved too!
"My kids gobbled this up and asked for seconds! It’s official: Creamy Beef Pasta is on our weekly rotation." – Sarah, home cook.
The cooking process explained
Making Creamy Beef Pasta is a breeze! You’ll start by cooking your penne until al dente, then create a delicious sauce in just one skillet. Saute the onions and garlic to build flavor, add the ground beef until browned, and blend in heavy cream and Parmesan. It all comes together beautifully, creating a velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.
Key ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing
Feel free to switch things up: you can use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef, or swap the penne for your favorite pasta shape.
Step-by-step instructions
Now let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your Creamy Beef Pasta:
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned, which should take around 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan until melted and fully incorporated.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
Want to elevate your presentation? Try serving Creamy Beef Pasta in individual bowls garnished with freshly chopped parsley or cracked black pepper. Pair it with a crisp green salad on the side to cut through the richness, or serve with garlic bread for a cozy dinner experience. A glass of red wine, like Chianti, can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? Store your Creamy Beef Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. When it’s time to reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back that creamy texture and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tricks to ensure your Creamy Beef Pasta turns out perfectly every time:
- Make sure not to overcook your pasta; al dente gives it the perfect bite.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps the sauce adhere to the pasta while adding flavor.
- Allow your beef to brown well; it deepens the overall flavor of the dish.
Creative twists
Feel free to get adventurous! Add in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for an unexpected twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses—like mozzarella or cheese blends—for added flavor. For a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or sautéed jalapeños!
Common questions
-
How long does it take to make Creamy Beef Pasta?
This dish typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights. -
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great, any short pasta such as fusilli or rotini will also do just fine. -
How do I store leftovers safely?
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and always reheat until they’re piping hot to enjoy safely.
Now you’ve got the perfect, creamy dish for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Main Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef Can substitute with ground chicken or turkey.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Add more for garnish if desired.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tsp olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Cooking Preparation
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned, which should take around 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan until melted and fully incorporated.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
