Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Beef Pasta is a perfect weeknight meal that is quick, easy, and satisfying. With its rich sauce and hearty ingredients, it brings comfort food to a whole new level. It mixes tender pasta with savory ground beef, creamy goodness, and a sprinkle of cheese that will make everyone at the table smile. Plus, it uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta
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
Directions:
- 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 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, about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Mix in the grated Parmesan until melted.
- 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.
How to Serve Creamy Beef Pasta
Creamy Beef Pasta is best served hot straight from the skillet. You can sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top for added flavor, and fresh parsley can brighten the dish. It pairs well with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Beef Pasta
To store any leftover Creamy Beef Pasta, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick.
Tips to Make Creamy Beef Pasta
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to best hold up in the sauce.
- You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less reserved pasta water.
- For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or sauté vegetables like bell peppers or spinach with the beef.
Variation
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make the dish even heartier.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, any pasta you like will work for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the dish is best fresh, you can prepare it ahead by cooking the pasta and sauce separately. Combine them just before serving.
Q: Is this recipe freezable?
A: Yes, you can freeze the Creamy Beef Pasta. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- 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 olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart and cooking until browned, about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in the grated Parmesan until melted.
- 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.