Creamy Beef Pasta

Pasta lovers, rejoice! Creamy Beef Pasta is a quintessential comfort dish that hits all the right notes. Imagine tender penne enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a showering of Parmesan. This recipe is not just about flavors; it’s about making weeknight dinners effortless and delicious. I whipped this up on a busy Tuesday, and now, it’s my family’s favorite go-to meal. Trust me, once you serve this, you’ll understand why it deserves a special place on your table!

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Creamy Beef Pasta. Firstly, it’s quick and easy. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, which means you can have a hearty meal on the table even on the busiest of nights. It’s also budget-friendly, using simple and accessible ingredients that won’t break the bank. Plus, who can resist a dish that combines gooey, velvety cream with the savory goodness of beef?

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen thanks to its universal kid-approved status. Don’t take my word for it; check out this review from a fellow home cook:

“I made this for my kids, and they begged for seconds! It’s become our regular weeknight dinner.”

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Cooking Creamy Beef Pasta is a breeze! First, gather your ingredients and prepare for a delightful culinary journey that takes just a handful of steps. You’ll start by cooking your pasta while simultaneously preparing the flavorful beef cream sauce. This method saves time and reduces cleanup, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Creamy Beef Pasta:

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• 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

Substitutions Note: For a lighter dish, you could use half-and-half in place of heavy cream, or swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Steps

1. Start by cooking the penne according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.
5. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Combine the cooked penne with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything within the creamy goodness.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Serving

This Creamy Beef Pasta shines brightest when paired with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. You might even consider adding braised greens for a fresh element on the plate. And let’s not forget a glass of your favorite red wine to complement the flavors.

Best Way to Store Creamy Beef Pasta

To keep your Creamy Beef Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. When reheating, adding a splash of water or more cream will help bring the sauce back to life. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Pro Chef Tips

To elevate your Creamy Beef Pasta even further, consider browning the beef with some chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. A pinch of nutmeg in the cream sauce can also brighten the flavors beautifully, adding that professional touch. And remember, tasting as you go is key—adjusting seasoning to your preference makes all the difference.

Recipe Variations

If you’re looking to shake things up, there are countless variations to explore. You could incorporate spinach for a pop of color and nutrition, or experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. For a little kick, adding red pepper flakes can bring heat to this creamy dish. The options are endless!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make Creamy Beef Pasta?

You can have this dish ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat could work well.

How do I store leftovers safely?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and ensure to reheat thoroughly before consuming.

With this simple yet indulgent recipe, you’re set to impress your family and friends while enjoying a comforting meal any night of the week. Happy cooking!

Creamy Beef Pasta

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Beef

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Description

A quick and comforting dish featuring tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious cream sauce with seasoned ground beef and Parmesan.

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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. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.
5. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Combine the cooked penne with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything within the creamy goodness.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, or swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, beef pasta, quick dinner, comfort food, family meal