Easy & Creamy Stovetop Ground Beef Pasta 🍝🥩🧀
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal that comes together quickly, then this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta recipe is perfect for you. Also known as Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Pasta or One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef, this dish offers a delicious blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and tender pasta—all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying family meal, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a rich and indulgent dish that everyone will love.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 12 ounces (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish
3. How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Sauté the Ground Beef
In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Build Flavor
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This step enhances the savory depth of your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cream and Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately for a rich, creamy experience.
4. Tips for Perfect Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- For a healthier twist, use light cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- The dish can be customized with vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta to maintain its texture—al dente is best for mixing into the sauce.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Creamy Ground Beef Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce.
6. Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. For added flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan and serve with a glass of your favorite white wine or sparkling water. Check out our crispy breakfast potatoes for a hearty side to complete your meal.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta available in most grocery stores. Ensure that the sauce ingredients are also gluten-free.
What are good substitutions for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just be mindful of the added acidity when using yogurt.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick meal for busy weeknights.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- A large stainless steel pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and preparing the sauce in one container for easy cleanup.
- A sturdy wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately add ingredients for perfect flavor balance.
- A garlic press: Effortlessly minces garlic for that aromatic flavor boost.
Investing in quality tools enhances your cooking experience and helps create perfect dishes every time.
9. Conclusion
In summary, this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the heartiness of ground beef and pasta. Whether you’re short on time or craving comfort food, this recipe will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors and ingredients, and enjoy a satisfying dinner in just about 30 minutes. For more tasty recipes, check out our quick and easy one-pot creamy ground beef pasta.
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Easy & Creamy Stovetop Ground Beef Pasta
Enjoy a comforting and delicious Easy & Creamy Stovetop Ground Beef Pasta, a quick and satisfying one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and tender pasta, this dish is an indulgent family favorite that comes together effortlessly in just 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 12 ounces (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and stir. Add Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Use reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Adjust seasoning as desired. Garnish with parsley or basil and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a healthier option, substitute heavy cream with light cream or Greek yogurt.
- Enhance nutrition by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Avoid overcooking pasta to maintain perfect texture—al dente is best for mixing into sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg