why make this recipe
Creamy Beef Pasta is a delightful meal that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It is quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. This dish is filling, satisfying, and easy to customize, which means everyone in the family will enjoy it. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that simplifies cleanup!
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 until browned (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the 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 hot. You can dish it out in bowls and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to create a full meal.
how to store Creamy Beef Pasta
To store leftover Creamy Beef Pasta, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Creamy Beef Pasta
- For added flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the dish.
- If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.
- If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
variation
You can customize this recipe by using different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or rigatoni. You can also switch out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Just combine them before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
A: You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added for more nutrition and flavor.
Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta Cook until al dente
- 1 lb lean ground beef Brown in skillet
- 1 cup heavy cream For the creamy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor
- 1 medium onion, diced Sauté for flavor
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For mixing in and garnish
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning For seasoning the beef
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
- 2 tsp olive oil For sautéing onion and garlic
Instructions
Cooking pasta
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
Sautéing
- 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 until browned (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Making the sauce
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
Combining
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
