why make this recipe
Creamy Beef Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings joy to any meal time. It combines tender penne pasta with savory ground beef and a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, and it is simple enough for anyone to make. Plus, it’s a great way to satisfy the whole family!
how to make Creamy Beef Pasta
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 for sautéing
Directions :
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
how to serve Creamy Beef Pasta
Creamy Beef Pasta is best served warm. You can serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal. Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley on top makes it look even more appetizing!
how to store Creamy Beef Pasta
To store any leftovers, let the pasta cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or extra cream to help loosen the sauce.
tips to make Creamy Beef Pasta
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It’s great for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
- Feel free to add some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper or using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
variation
You can easily swap out the penne pasta for other types like fettuccine or macaroni. If you want to make it lighter, substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or lentils in place of meat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use mozzarella or Cheddar as alternatives.
Is it possible to freeze Creamy Beef Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. It’s best to consume it within 2 months.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta This can be substituted with other pasta types.
- 1 lb lean ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese You can use mozzarella or Cheddar if Parmesan is unavailable.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp olive oil Use for sautéing.
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
