Name: Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
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 to taste; Black pepper to taste; 2 tsp olive oil

Jump to Recipe

Creamy Beef Pasta brings together tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich sauce that turns an ordinary night into something memorable. This dish fits perfectly when you crave comfort without spending hours in the kitchen. With familiar ingredients and simple steps, Creamy Beef Pasta delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite, making it ideal for busy evenings or relaxed family meals when everyone wants something filling and familiar.

Story

Creamy Beef Pasta has always felt like the kind of meal that brings people closer to the table. I first leaned on this recipe during hectic weeks when time felt short but the need for a hearty dinner felt strong. The aroma of beef simmering with garlic and cream filled the kitchen and signaled comfort before the first bite. Over time, this Creamy Beef Pasta became a go-to dish for gatherings, casual dinners, and moments when food needed to feel reassuring. Its creamy texture, balanced seasoning, and dependable results explain why this comfort food classic continues to earn a regular place in my weekly rotation.

Ingredients

This Creamy Beef Pasta uses everyday items that work together smoothly, creating a dish that feels rich without being complicated.

8 ounces penne pasta
1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe keeps things straightforward while delivering consistent results that suit both beginners and confident home cooks. The process flows naturally from start to finish, helping the flavors build without stress.

Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by measuring and prepping all ingredients so cooking stays smooth. Dice the onion evenly, mince the garlic finely, and grate the Parmesan fresh for a smoother melt. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, then drain while reserving one cup of pasta water for later use.

Cooking Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water to reach the desired sauce consistency, stir in Parmesan until melted, and toss in the pasta until coated evenly.

Tips for Perfect Results

Small adjustments during cooking help this Creamy Beef Pasta turn out smooth, balanced, and full of flavor every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcooking the pasta, since it will continue softening once mixed with the sauce. Skipping pasta water can lead to a sauce that feels too thick or heavy. Using pre-shredded cheese may cause a grainy texture, so freshly grated Parmesan works best here.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Season the beef generously while browning to build a strong base flavor. Let the sauce simmer briefly so the flavors combine smoothly. Stir constantly once the cheese goes in to keep the sauce silky and cohesive.

Serving and Storage

Creamy Beef Pasta serves well fresh but also holds up nicely for leftovers, making it practical for meal planning.

How to Serve

Serve Creamy Beef Pasta hot in wide bowls to keep the sauce evenly distributed. A light green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness nicely, and extra Parmesan at the table lets everyone adjust flavor to taste.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a small splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef Pasta proves that simple ingredients can still deliver deeply satisfying meals. With its rich sauce, savory beef, and comforting texture, this dish fits effortlessly into weeknight routines or relaxed weekend dinners. Once you try it, Creamy Beef Pasta often becomes one of those recipes you return to whenever you need dependable comfort without complication.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Beef Pasta a good weeknight option?

Creamy Beef Pasta works well on busy evenings because it comes together quickly, uses common pantry ingredients, and requires minimal prep while still feeling filling and complete.

Can this recipe fit into a 30-minute schedule?

Yes, this dish works well as a 30 minute meal since the pasta cooks while the sauce comes together, keeping total cooking time efficient.

Can I change the pasta shape or protein?

Absolutely, this pasta recipe adapts easily by swapping penne for shells or rigatoni, or replacing beef with turkey while keeping the creamy base intact.