If you’re craving a dinner that’s both comforting and irresistibly creamy, this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta should be at the top of your list. Imagine twirls of tender pasta coated in a velvety, cheese-laced tomato sauce packed with juicy ground beef, gentle herbs, and a hint of garlic—every forkful is pure weeknight joy. It’s the sort of dish you’ll want to come back to, thanks to the perfect balance of richness and simplicity, making it a family favorite for busy evenings or cozy nights in.

Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Pasta couldn’t be easier—each one plays a pivotal role in delivering that crave-worthy flavor, texture, and color. From beefy richness to the creamy finish and a touch of green from fresh herbs, these staples come together for an unforgettable pasta dinner.

Pasta (12 ounces penne or rotini): Sturdy shapes like penne or rotini grip all the luscious sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a hint of fruitiness and helps brown the beef perfectly without sticking.
Ground beef (1 pound): The heart of the dish—it brings juicy, savory goodness to the sauce.
Onion (1 small, diced): Infuses the sauce with a gentle sweetness and depth.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Elevates every bite with aromatic flair.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Delivers classic herbal notes that make the sauce sing.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a subtle hint of warmth and smoky color.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for round, well-seasoned flavor.
Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Tomato sauce (1 15-ounce can): Forms the backbone of that rich, tangy base.
Beef broth (1/2 cup): Balances and deepens both the taste and the texture of the sauce.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Delivers the creaminess that makes Creamy Ground Beef Pasta completely irresistible.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Melts beautifully into the sauce for gooey delight.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a finishing touch of salty, cheesy nuttiness.
Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): A pop of freshness and color to brighten your plate.

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your penne or rotini and cook until they’re just al dente—meaning cooked through, but still with a bit of bite in the center. Drain well and set aside; you’ll want your pasta perfectly ready to soak up all that beautiful creamy sauce later on.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and swirl in the olive oil. Once it shimmers, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, letting it develop deep, flavorful bits along the way. If there’s extra fat, carefully drain it off before moving on.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add diced onion and minced garlic straight into the browned beef. Sauté everything together for about three to four minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant—the kind of aroma that brings everyone to the kitchen!

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste

Now, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir these in to wake up their flavors, then mix in the tomato paste and let it cook for just about a minute. This step helps deepen both color and taste, giving your sauce a warm, savory backbone.

Step 5: Simmer with Tomato Sauce and Broth

Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for five to seven minutes—just enough time for all those flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, watching as the tomato sauce turns luxuriously creamy. Simmer for another two to three minutes, and you’ll see the magic happen: a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of pasta.

Step 7: Bring It All Together

Add your drained pasta right into the sauce, then sprinkle over the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Gently stir until the cheeses melt and everything is thoroughly mixed. The result? An irresistible skillet full of Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that’s ready to eat.

How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish! A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or even a dusting of extra Parmesan can add a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens every plate of Creamy Ground Beef Pasta.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta loves a sidekick—think crisp garlic bread for scooping up extra sauce, a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette, or even some roasted broccoli or asparagus for a wholesome balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, spoon individual servings into shallow bowls and finish with a swirl of cream or a little more cheese. You could also use mini casserole dishes and broil the tops under the oven for a bubbly, golden finish that gives Creamy Ground Beef Pasta a chic upgrade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you wind up with extra pasta (lucky you!), simply let it cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. The Creamy Ground Beef Pasta will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing its comforting texture.

Freezing

Creamy sauces can be tricky to freeze, but this dish handles it beautifully! For best results, freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to two months. When thawed gently, the sauce will come back together nicely with a quick stir.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly on the stove or in the microwave, stirring as you go. If the sauce seems a touch thick, just add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to creamy perfection. The flavors only deepen as it sits, making leftovers a real treat!

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne and rotini are ideal for soaking up the sauce, feel free to use shells, fusilli, or even spaghetti—just keep an eye on cook time for best results.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even a few dollops of softened cream cheese. Both options will keep your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta deliciously creamy while trimming a bit of richness.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a kick, add a generous pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the seasonings. It’s a simple way to turn up the heat without overpowering the creaminess.

Can I prepare Creamy Ground Beef Pasta ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat and stir in freshly cooked pasta for a fuss-free meal.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

The secret is low and slow—rehydrate with a splash of milk or beef broth as you warm the pasta gently, either on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often for even creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the ultimate comfort food experience—give Creamy Ground Beef Pasta a try! With its hearty flavors and dreamy sauce, it’s sure to become a treasured favorite you’ll want to make time and time again. Don’t be surprised if it earns a regular spot in your weeknight rotation!

Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta recipe. Perfectly seasoned ground beef in a creamy tomato sauce tossed with pasta and melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces penne or rotini pasta

Beef Mixture:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream

Cheese Blend:

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
Sauté Beef Mixture: Brown ground beef in olive oil, add onion, garlic, seasonings, and tomato paste. Stir in tomato sauce and broth, simmer.
Add Cream: Reduce heat, add heavy cream, and simmer until creamy.
Combine: Mix in cooked pasta and cheeses until melted.
Garnish and Serve: Top with parsley before serving.