Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta brings together savory beef, tender pasta, and a rich cheesy sauce for a comforting family meal that comes together quickly. It’s perfect when you want something hearty without the fuss of too many pots and pans.

I first tried this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed dinner fast and it quickly became a favorite in our house. Now my kids ask for it regularly because of the creamy texture and familiar flavors.

Ingredients

• One pound ground beef: ensures a hearty and flavorful base for the dish. Choose lean or regular ground beef depending on how rich you want it
• One tablespoon olive oil: helps brown the beef perfectly and adds a subtle fruitiness
• One small onion finely chopped: lends sweetness and depth when sautéed
• Two cloves garlic minced: infuse the dish with savory aroma
• One teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: brings a blend of herbs like oregano and basil that deepen the flavor
• Half teaspoon salt: balances the dish but can be adjusted to taste
• Quarter teaspoon black pepper: adds a gentle heat
• Two cups beef broth: provide the liquid base for cooking pasta and intensify the beef flavor. Use low sodium if you want better control over saltiness
• One can of 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes drained: so you get the tomato flavor without excess liquid
• Two cups uncooked pasta such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni: chosen for their ability to hold sauce well
• Half cup heavy cream: adds silky richness to the sauce
• Half cup grated Parmesan cheese: offers a sharp savory note and helps thicken the sauce
• Quarter cup fresh parsley chopped and added last: gives freshness and color but is optional

Instructions

Sear the Ground Beef:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook while breaking up with a spoon for about five to seven minutes until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for two to three minutes stirring frequently until the onion softens and becomes translucent, developing a sweet undertone.

Season the Mixture:

Sprinkle dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the beef and vegetables. Stir them in evenly to distribute the herbs and seasoning.

Add Broth and Tomatoes:

Pour in the beef broth and add the drained diced tomatoes. Stir everything well and reduce the heat slightly to simmer for three to four minutes. This melds the flavors and softens the tomatoes.

Cook the Pasta:

Add the uncooked pasta directly to the skillet, making sure it is fully submerged in the broth mixture. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the pasta cook for ten to twelve minutes stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking. Add a splash more broth or water if it looks dry. Cook until pasta is tender but still firm to the bite.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Turn the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese gently. Let it simmer for two to three minutes so the sauce becomes thick and creamy, coating the pasta and beef beautifully.

Finishing Touches and Serving:

Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and add extra Parmesan if you like. Serve immediately while piping hot for the creamiest experience.

One of my favorite family memories is sitting around the dinner table with everyone savoring this dish after busy days, all happy and full.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep pasta from becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option but may require adding a bit more seasoning for boldness. You can swap heavy cream for half and half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Try using a different type of cheese such as Pecorino Romano or a mild cheddar for variation. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter, less meaty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for brightness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make fantastic companions to soak up every last drop of sauce. A glass of light red wine complements the beef and cheese flavors nicely.

This recipe is a perfect balance of ease and flavor, ideal for busy nights. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting, creamy goodness.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well as they hold the sauce nicely.

→ How long should I cook the pasta on the stovetop?

Cook the pasta covered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and cooked through.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese to maintain creaminess if heavy cream is unavailable.

→ Is it necessary to drain the fat from the cooked beef?

Draining excess fat helps reduce greasiness, ensuring a balanced and creamy sauce texture.

→ Can fresh herbs be used instead of dried Italian seasoning?

Yes, fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme can be used to enhance the flavor profile naturally.