The aroma of sizzling garlic and seasoned beef fills the kitchen as you prepare a delicious, creamy dish that is sure to delight your family. This creamy beef pasta is a simple yet comforting meal that takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. The combination of rich flavors and creamy texture makes every bite a satisfying experience.
This recipe is perfect for families looking for a quick and hearty dinner or for anyone craving a comforting pasta dish. It’s great for weeknight meals but can also be prepped in advance. Simply cook the pasta and sauce, then store them separately in the fridge until ready to combine and serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creamy sauce clings beautifully to each piece of pasta.
- It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it incredibly convenient.
- The combination of flavors is rich and satisfying, perfect for everyone.
- It creates minimal dishes, thanks to the one-pan method.
What You’ll Need
You’ll need a few essential ingredients to make this delectable dish.
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
For the Sauce
- 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
Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Penne pasta can be swapped for rotini or fusilli.
- Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano.
- Italian seasoning can be made with a mix of dried basil and oregano.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious creamy beef pasta.
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil a pot of salted water, then cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned, approximately 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Add Cream & Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted and combined.
5. Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce. Ensure the pasta is well combined with the creamy beef mixture.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired for extra flavor.
How to Store It
Fridge: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, cream-based sauces don’t freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid overcooking the pasta to keep it al dente.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the sauce.
- Stir in a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of pasta water added.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for a hearty dinner.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a cozy evening.
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