If you are searching for a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender pasta with a rich, velvety sauce made from browned ground beef, savory seasonings, and a luscious blend of creamy cheeses. The flavors dance together beautifully, giving you a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with loved ones. Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color, without any fuss.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold the sauce perfectly, making every bite saucy and delicious.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef nicely and adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that brings richness and protein to the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds a mild sweetness and soft texture as it cooks down.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a subtle kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that deepens the pasta’s savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of smokiness and gorgeous color.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that adds richness and tang.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient that makes the sauce irresistibly smooth and luscious.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for salty, nutty depth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to add gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh burst of color and brightness to finish.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until it reaches al dente perfection. This ensures the noodles hold up well once combined with the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain and set aside to make room for your sauce creation.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it apart as it browns evenly, building deep flavor and juicy texture. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the dish balanced and not greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add diced onion to the beef and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic alongside Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse the mixture with savory aromas that set the tone for the sauce.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to reduce its raw edge. Then pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors marry together. Slowly stir in heavy cream and let the sauce thicken slightly, coating the beef with a silky richness.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Pasta
Stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce. Gently fold cooked pasta and shredded mozzarella into the skillet, tossing until every piece is smothered in creamy, cheesy goodness. The mozzarella adds stretch and gooey texture that will have you swooning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of green and a hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. Serve your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe immediately for a meal that everyone will rave about.
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Besides parsley, a little extra grated Parmesan or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate this dish. Freshly cracked black pepper provides a subtle kick, while a pinch of red pepper flakes will add some heat if you prefer spice.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, garlic bread for dipping, or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans that add nutrition and a bit of balance to the indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls garnished with parsley and Parmesan. You can also try plating the pasta inside hollowed-out bell peppers or nestling it beside roasted cherry tomatoes for bursts of color and flavor contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. It will remain fresh for up to 3 days, making it an ideal choice for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. While the creamy sauce may thicken during freezing, it reheats well when gently warmed on the stove or microwave. Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently over low heat. This keeps the pasta creamy without drying out or becoming rubbery. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and enjoy the comforting richness anew.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini are recommended since they hold the sauce well, you can use any pasta shape you love or have on hand. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor. Just brown it thoroughly and follow the recipe steps as usual.
Can I add vegetables to the Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Adding spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini not only boosts nutrition but also adds wonderful texture and color to the dish.
How can I make this recipe richer?
For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the heavy cream. It adds an unbeatable creamy texture and tangy depth.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, this dish freezes well and can be reheated gently. Just make sure to add a bit of cream or milk during reheating to restore its creamy consistency perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. It’s filled with comforting flavors and cheesy goodness that always hit the spot. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find it’s as cozy and satisfying as your favorite homemade meal, guaranteed to become a go-to recipe that pleases family and friends every time.
Print
Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender pasta tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce with browned ground beef, savory spices, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
Beef Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute to release the aromas.
- Add Tomato Paste and Simmer: Mix in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute to deepen the flavor. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Toss the cooked pasta and shredded mozzarella cheese into the skillet. Mix thoroughly until the pasta is well coated and the mozzarella is melted, creating a luscious creamy texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish and serve the creamy ground beef pasta warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce.
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter protein alternative if preferred.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for additional vegetables and nutrients.
