Creamy Beef Pasta

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a rich and creamy pasta dish. Creamy Beef Pasta is a delicious combination of tender penne, savory ground beef, and a luscious sauce that hugs every bite. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is a family favorite in my home, and I can assure you that it’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love Making It

So what is it about Creamy Beef Pasta that makes it so special? For starters, it’s incredibly quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, with just a handful of budget-friendly ingredients, it’s an economical meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

This recipe is also highly versatile; you can dress it up or down as you like. Looking for a meal to impress guests? Just add some extra herbs or a splash of wine. Need a kid-approved dish? The creamy texture and familiar flavors are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.

"This creamy beef pasta is my go-to for quick dinners. Everyone in my family loves it, and it’s so easy to make!" – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating a delicious plate of Creamy Beef Pasta is simpler than it seems. To get started, you’ll be cooking your pasta, sautéing some aromatics, and then bringing it all together with a creamy sauce. It’s a clear path to a fulfilling meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 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

Don’t hesitate to make substitutions if you need to; ground turkey works just as well, and you can swap in a different type of pasta if you prefer.

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add the penne, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain while reserving about a cup of the pasta water.

2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about five minutes until fragrant.

3. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart while it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, around seven minutes.

4. Make the sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Mix in the grated Parmesan and let it melt.

5. Combine and serve: Gently toss the cooked penne with the sauce in the skillet. Ensure every piece is coated. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Serving

To elevate your Creamy Beef Pasta experience, consider serving it with crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A side of roasted vegetables works wonderfully too, adding a splash of color and nutrition to your plate. If you want to spice things up a bit, try topping your dish with red pepper flakes or freshly chopped basil.

Best Way to Store Creamy Beef Pasta

If you find yourself with leftovers (though I doubt there will be any!), storing this dish is quite simple. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick.

Helpful Hints

• Use lean beef: Opting for lean ground beef minimizes excess grease in your dish.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember, you’ll be combining it with the sauce and the heat will continue to cook the pasta slightly.
• Experiment with cheese: While Parmesan is classic, mixing in mozzarella or adding a sprinkle of feta can add a new twist.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some simple variations to try:

• Vegetable Boost: Stir in some spinach or mushrooms along with the garlic for extra nutrients.
• Cheesy Infusion: Add extra cheese varieties, such as cheddar or a creamy blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Herbed Upgrade: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add freshness.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

This creamy beef pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick option for dinner.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and pasta in advance. Just combine them right before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, half and half can be used in place of heavy cream, or you can try a non-dairy milk with a thickener.

Now, get ready to experience the creamy goodness of this delightful pasta dish that your taste buds will thank you for!

Creamy Beef Pasta

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Beef

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Description

A rich and creamy pasta dish with tender penne, savory ground beef, and a luscious sauce that brings everyone to the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot, add the penne, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain while reserving about a cup of the pasta water.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about five minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, around seven minutes.
4. Lower the heat to medium-low, stir in the heavy cream, and gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Mix in the grated Parmesan and let it melt.
5. Gently toss the cooked penne with the sauce in the skillet to ensure every piece is coated. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Elevate the dish by serving with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, beef pasta, easy dinner, comforting meal, weeknight dinner