If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet convenient meal, look no further than this Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. This dish combines the richness of heavy cream with the heartiness of ground beef and the al dente chew of pasta, creating a plate of goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s an easy recipe to whip up when you crave something creamy and satisfying. Trust me, your family will request this dish time and time again.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta has all the right ingredients to become a family favorite. It’s quick to make, deliciously creamy, and packed with protein. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe meets the demands of your busy life while also pleasing even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, the best part? It’s budget-friendly, making it accessible for everyone.
"This creamy pasta dish is a game changer! My kids devoured it, and I loved how easy it was to make after a long day." – A happy home cook
The cooking process explained
Making this pasta dish involves a few simple steps: sautéing, boiling, simmering, and mixing. Start by cooking your aromatic veggies, brown your ground beef, and then combine everything into one creamy concoction that coats the pasta perfectly. You can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes, making it a stress-free option for those hectic evenings. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what you’ll need.
Key Ingredients
To prepare this delightful meal, gather the following:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta (feel free to swap with your favorite type)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Don’t hesitate to play with the ingredients—perhaps add some chopped spinach for a health boost or use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s nicely browned, seasoning with salt and pepper as you go, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a separate pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce in the skillet, gently stirring to coat every piece evenly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately, topping with extra Parmesan if desired.
Serving suggestions
To elevate your creamy pasta experience, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the meal’s comforting vibes. And don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing leftovers is simple. Allow any remaining pasta to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore that luscious texture.
Helpful cooking tips
To make your cooking experience smoother, consider these handy tips:
- Make sure to use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease in your dish.
- Don’t skip the sautéing stage for the onions and garlic; it brings depth of flavor.
- If you want extra creaminess, feel free to add more cheese or cream to the sauce.
Creative twists
Looking to change things up? Consider these variations:
- Swap in different proteins like shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for some color and nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheeses—try a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a unique flavor twist.
Your questions answered
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
You can have this creamy dish ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Can I use a different kind of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fusilli work wonderfully, you can try any pasta shape you have on hand.
What if I have leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage. Just follow safe food handling practices!
This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta recipe is not just a meal; it’s an introduction to satisfying home-cooked flavors that require minimal effort. Dig in and enjoy your time at the dinner table!
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta Feel free to swap with your favorite type.
- 1 cup heavy cream Or use half-and-half for a lighter flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Add more for extra creaminess.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the onion.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it's nicely browned, seasoning with salt and pepper as you go, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a separate pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet with the beef mixture.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce in the skillet, gently stirring to coat every piece evenly.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately, topping with extra Parmesan if desired.
