Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This creamy beef pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender penne noodles are coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with savory ground beef and Italian seasonings. It comes together quickly and satisfies the whole family.
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 and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Step 3: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned, about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Step 4: Stir in heavy cream and gradually mix in reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Add grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt.
- Step 5: Combine cooked penne with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat all noodles evenly.
- Step 6: Serve immediately while hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Swap penne for rigatoni or fusilli for a different pasta shape that holds sauce well.
- Include sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle works well in this recipe and holds the creamy sauce nicely.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
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Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and creamy beef pasta recipe featuring tender penne tossed in a savory Parmesan and heavy cream sauce, seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic. This quick and comforting dish is perfect for a hearty dinner that comes together in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is fully browned, approximately 7 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor.
- Prepare Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream to the skillet. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to ensure all the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy beef sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy beef pasta immediately while hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps to adjust the sauce consistency and aids in binding the sauce to the pasta.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the dish light.
- Feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a bright color contrast and fresh flavor.
- Parmesan cheese melts best when added off heat to prevent curdling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: creamy beef pasta, penne pasta recipe, easy beef pasta, Italian pasta dish, one pan pasta, quick dinner, comfort food
