If you’re searching for the ultimate weeknight comfort dish that comes together in half an hour, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. Imagine tender pasta coated in a savory, velvety sauce with rich ground beef, a touch of tomato, and a snowfall of parmesan — all coming together in one skillet. It’s the kind of dish you crave when you need something hearty, cozy, and, above all, irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of simple pantry staples and fridge favorites can create a restaurant-worthy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s boosting richness, adding a pop of color, or just making the sauce completely dreamy.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Choose 85% lean for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Pasta (12 oz penne, rotini, or fusilli): Twisty shapes catch the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps soften the onion and adds subtle fruity notes.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Gives sweetness and depth to the sauce base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for that classic savory aroma.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings herby warmth and an unmistakable Italian vibe.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds color and a gentle smokiness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): A touch of heat if you love a little kick.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Adds umami and rich tomato tang.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Makes the sauce extra flavorful and hearty.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The magic that makes everything lusciously creamy.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Salty, cheesy goodness for the perfect finish.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the wonderful flavors.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A pop of green freshness for garnish.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta of choice—penne, rotini, or fusilli—and cook until just al dente according to package directions. This gives your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta the perfect bite and texture. Once cooked, drain and set aside while you prep the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
While the pasta bubbles away, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it soften for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the onion starts to look translucent and fragrant, stir in the minced garlic. Allow it to sauté for another minute, releasing its incredible aroma.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon or spatula. Cook it until it’s thoroughly browned and crumbled, about 5–6 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, take a moment to drain it—this keeps the finished dish from feeling greasy while preserving all the rich flavor.
Step 4: Build the Flavor Base
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, paprika, and (if you like a bit of heat) crushed red pepper flakes into the browned beef. Next, stir in the tomato paste, working it into the meat to develop a beautiful savory depth. Let everything cook together for another minute or two—this little step makes a surprisingly big flavor difference!
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let this glorious mixture bubble for about 3–4 minutes, stirring often, as it thickens into a silky, creamy sauce that brings all the flavors together in true Creamy Ground Beef Pasta style.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet. Toss it until every piece is fully coated in the rich, velvety sauce. Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish, and serve up your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta piping hot!
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Garnishes
I love to shower my Creamy Ground Beef Pasta with extra grated Parmesan, freshly cracked black pepper, and a handful of chopped parsley. For a little extra pizzazz, add a few chili flakes or a drizzle of quality olive oil. The garnishes add brightness and bring restaurant-level flair right to your dinner table.
Side Dishes
Keep things simple with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, or serve buttery garlic bread for that irresistible dipping action. Roasted broccoli or steamed green beans make colorful, healthy counterpoints to the creamy, hearty pasta. These sides round out the meal and make it feel extra special, even on a busy night.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta into individual ramekins and topping with extra cheese, then broiling for a bubbly finish. Alternatively, serve it in a big family-style bowl in the center of the table, or portion the pasta into warmed bowls and top each with a colorful garnish assortment. Guests love adding their own flair!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Ground Beef Pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so tomorrow’s lunch may taste even better!
Freezing
If you want to prep Creamy Ground Beef Pasta ahead, let the pasta cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. For best results, undercook the pasta by a minute or two so it doesn’t get mushy when thawed and reheated.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or beef broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also use the microwave, stirring halfway through, until everything is piping hot and creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes if you prefer a lighter version. Both work well with the sauce and seasonings, though you may want to add a little extra salt or cheese for richness.
Can I make this dish gluten free?
Yes! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten free, so you won’t have to make other changes.
How can I add extra veggies?
Toss in a couple handfuls of baby spinach or frozen peas during the last few minutes of simmering the sauce. You could also sauté bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for a little twist and extra flavor.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be a bit less rich. For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or an extra handful of grated Parmesan.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The flavors are mild and comforting, especially if you skip the red pepper flakes. Kids love the cheesy sauce, and you can mix in veggies for bonus nutrition.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta makes it into your regular dinner rotation. It’s quick, endlessly adaptable, and the kind of comforting meal everyone loves. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta dish!
Print
Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and rich Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that’s quick and easy to make. This delicious pasta dish features tender ground beef in a luscious cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
1 lb
Pasta:
12 oz (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Onion:
1 small, finely chopped
Garlic:
3 cloves, minced
Italian Seasoning:
1 teaspoon
Paprika:
½ teaspoon
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes:
¼ teaspoon (optional)
Tomato Paste:
1 tablespoon
Beef Broth:
1 cup
Heavy Cream:
1 cup
Parmesan Cheese:
½ cup, grated
Salt and Black Pepper:
To taste
Parsley:
Chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Add beef broth and simmer. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmer until thickened.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until coated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add spinach or peas for extra veggies.
- For a cheesier dish, stir in extra shredded mozzarella or cheddar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
