Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
When it comes to quick and satisfying weeknight dinners, Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a recipe that checks all the boxes. This dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef with a creamy sauce, all tossed with tender pasta. It’s comforting, delicious, and perfect for the whole family. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!
Imagine coming home after a long day, and within just 30 minutes, you can be sitting down to a steaming bowl of this creamy goodness. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Top Reasons to Make Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- Quick & Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender pasta are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Budget-Friendly: Using ground beef and pantry staples, this dish is light on the wallet.
What’s in the Bowl
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Any pasta shape you love will work—penne, fusilli, or spaghetti are all great choices.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onion and enhancing flavors.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The star protein that brings heartiness to the meal.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic kick.
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices: Provides a juicy base and tangy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle complexity to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: The key ingredient for creating that luscious creamy sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For that final touch of cheesy goodness.
What’s in the Gear List
- Large pot: For boiling pasta and mixing everything together.
- Skillet: To sauté the onion and cook the ground beef.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pans.
- Colander: For draining the pasta after cooking.
The Method for Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water in case you need to thinned the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Cream
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Allow the sauce to heat through for another 2-3 minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Serve your Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade meal!
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
- Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Mix in some spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes for some heat.
Steer Clear of These
- Pre-cooked pasta: Freshly cooked pasta will have a better texture.
- Overcooking the beef: Aim for a juicy texture instead of dry.
- Skipping the seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential for flavor.
- Using low-fat cream: It won’t provide that rich, creamy texture.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze the dish for up to a month; just be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be great alternatives that will still yield delicious results.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
You can use any pasta shape you like! Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti are all fantastic choices that will hold the creamy sauce well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply cook the pasta when you’re ready to eat. Combine them just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. You could also enjoy it alongside a light vegetable dish for a balanced meal.
Cook This Next
- Beef Enchilada Recipe – A delicious way to use ground beef in a Mexican twist!
- Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells – Another cheesy delight that combines pasta and beef.
Time to Try It
Now that you’ve got all the details, it’s time to whip up your own Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight yet special enough for a family gathering. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delightful flavors that come together in this dish. Happy cooking!
Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.
- Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Allow the sauce to heat through for another 2-3 minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve your Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade meal!
Notes
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
