Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a comforting and quick meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender ground beef, rich cream, and melted cheese, it comes together in one pot for easy cooking and cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 2: Add the pasta, cream, cheese, and tomato sauce to the cooked beef. Stir to combine well.
- Step 3: Pour in enough water to just cover the pasta. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thick and creamy, about 10-12 minutes.
- Step 4: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sauté chopped onions and garlic with the beef.
- Feel free to swap ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different protein.
- Add a handful of spinach or mushrooms for added veggies.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, this recipe works well with a variety of pasta types like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it creamy and delicious.
PrintCreamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring savory ground beef combined with tender pasta, rich cream, melted cheese, and tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it delivers a luscious, hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or elbow macaroni recommended)
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
Others
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Pasta and Liquid: Add the pasta to the skillet with the cooked beef. Pour in 1/2 cup of water or beef broth to help cook the pasta along with 1 cup of tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Simmer Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10-12 minutes.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Final Simmer: Let the mixture simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce. Remove from heat and serve warm.
Notes
- Use any short pasta like penne, macaroni, or rotini for best results.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Adding a pinch of Italian herbs like oregano or basil enhances the flavor.
- To make it spicier, add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the beef.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: ground beef pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, stovetop pasta, easy beef recipe
