Description
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce into one delicious dish. This easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, satisfying, and flavorful. It’s a family favorite, loved for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and simple preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work well)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
- Ground Beef: Adds heartiness and flavor. Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Beef Broth: Enhances the depth of flavor in the pasta dish.
- Heavy Cream: Creates the creamy, luxurious sauce.
- Cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding richness and a cheesy finish.
- Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or rotini work best to hold the sauce.
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat (optional if using lean beef). Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add diced onion and garlic to the cooked beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Cook the Pasta in Sauce:
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season and Add Pasta: Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the uncooked pasta and mix well, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer Until Tender: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce.
Finish the Dish:
- Stir in Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, add shredded cheese to the pot. Stir until melted and evenly distributed.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serve the Pasta:
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (optional) and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450-450kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 20g