Creamy Beef Pasta is a delightful dish that brings a comforting culinary experience to your family dinner table. With tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce featuring lean ground beef and a touch of garlic, this dish is perfect for satisfying those hunger pangs after a long day. It’s special because it effortlessly combines flavor and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, cozy family gatherings, or potluck events.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
One of the standout reasons to whip up this Creamy Beef Pasta is its speed and ease. It’s a one-skillet wonder that minimizes cleanup while delivering maximum comfort. The creaminess of the sauce, coupled with the heartiness of the beef and pasta, creates a dish that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for picky eaters, it’s sure to win the hearts (and appetites) of your family.
“This meal has become a weekly favorite! Fast, comforting, and flavorful—it’s hard to beat!” — A happy reader.
Step-by-Step Overview
Making Creamy Beef Pasta is both straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by cooking the penne and sautéing the onions and garlic. Then, it’s all about bringing together the ground beef with creamy goodness that coats each pasta piece. Get ready for a dish that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare!
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What You’ll Need
Gather these items to create your Creamy 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 grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or swap out the Parmesan for your favorite cheese!
Directions to Follow
- 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 the olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned, roughly 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- 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.
Feel free to adjust the thickness of your sauce by adding more or less reserved pasta water, depending on your preference!
How to Serve Creamy Beef Pasta
Enjoy this dish hot, paired with a crisp green salad to add freshness and crunch. A side of garlic bread or crusty rolls makes for a hearty meal, perfect for scooping up that creamy sauce! You could also top it off with some roasted veggies for added nutrition and flavor.
How to Store and Freeze
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small splash of cream or pasta water to keep it creamy. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to indulge again!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining—it’s great for adjusting sauce consistency!
- For extra flavor, try browning the ground beef in a bit of Worcestershire sauce or adding red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Ensure that your skillet is hot enough to properly brown the meat without steaming it.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? You can easily enhance this recipe by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You could also switch up the cheese and try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a unique twist!
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for Creamy Beef Pasta?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes. It’s a quick dinner option!
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just replace the penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream and nutritional yeast to mimic the creaminess and cheesy flavor.
Creamy Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting one-skillet dish featuring tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce with lean ground beef and garlic.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- 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 the olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned, roughly 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- 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.
Notes
Adjust the thickness of your sauce by adding more or less reserved pasta water. For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken, and for a different flavor, you can swap out the Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian