If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both comforting and easy to make, this creamy ground beef pasta is a sure hit. It’s the perfect balance of flavors, combining savory ground beef with creamy pasta that’s guaranteed to make any meal special. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or simply treating yourself, this recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Cheese grater
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1 – Prepare ingredients
To start this delicious journey, you’ll want to gather all your ingredients. Having everything prepped and ready makes the cooking process seamless. Chop your onions, mince the garlic, and measure out the other components. This preparation ensures you can focus on cooking without any last-minute scrambles.
Step 2 – Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is al dente, drain the water using a colander and set it aside. Remember to reserve about a cup of pasta water for later.
Step 3 – Sauté aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onions. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step helps build a flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 4 – Brown the beef
Add the ground beef to your skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned evenly, and any excess fat can be drained off if necessary. Season with salt and pepper to bring out the meat’s natural flavor.
Step 5 – Combine ingredients
Once the beef is browned, add the beef broth to the skillet to deglaze the pan. Stir well, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck at the bottom. Follow this by adding the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing it well into the sauce.
Step 6 – Finish with cheese
Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted into the sauce, enhancing its creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7 – Serve and enjoy
Plate your creamy ground beef pasta and garnish with fresh, chopped parsley for a hint of color and freshness. This dish is best served warm, allowing you to enjoy every creamy, delicious bite. It’s a meal that truly feels like home.
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
This creamy ground beef pasta dish shines on its own but can be served alongside a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Pair it with a glass of your favorite red wine for the ultimate dining experience.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a more flavorful dish, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. You can also stir in some mushrooms or spinach near the end of cooking for added texture and nutrients. Make sure not to overcook the pasta to maintain that perfect al dente bite.
High Protein Creamy Ground Beef Pasta – A Nutritious Twist
Boosting the protein in this dish is as easy as using a higher protein pasta or adding extra lean beef. Consider incorporating a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt into the sauce, which adds a tangy flavor along with additional protein. These small changes keep the dish satisfying for a muscle-building meal.
Low Carb Creamy Ground Beef Pasta – Guilt-Free Indulgence
For those watching their carb intake, substitute traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. The creamy sauce complements these low-carb alternatives beautifully, letting you enjoy all the flavors without the guilt. It’s an excellent way to satisfy cravings while sticking to your low-carb goals.
Storage Instructions
This creamy ground beef pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To refresh leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth during reheating to reintroduce moisture.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative, and they adapt well to the creamy sauce.
- Is there a substitute for heavy cream? Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a lighter version of the sauce.
- How can I make the sauce thicker? If your sauce is not as thick as you’d like, whisk in a teaspoon of corn starch or flour with a bit of cold water before adding it to the sauce.
- What cheese can I use instead of parmesan? Feel free to use pecorino romano or asiago for a slightly different flavor profile.
Indulge in Culinary Comfort with Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
With its hearty flavors and creamy sauce, this ground beef pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. We hope you give it a try, enjoy every bite, and share this recipe with fellow pasta lovers. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your thoughts and any personal twists you made!
Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- pasta
- heavy cream
- beef broth
- garlic
- onion
- parmesan cheese
- olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare the ingredients by mincing garlic, dicing the onion, and measuring other components.
- Boil water and cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté garlic and onions in olive oil until onions are translucent.
- Add ground beef to skillet and cook until browned, draining excess fat.
- Add beef broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine pasta with sauce, then add parmesan cheese and stir until incorporated.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.