Indulge in the creamy, hearty goodness of our Creamy Beef Pasta. This comforting dish brings together tender beef, a rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a memorable and delicious meal. Whether you’re preparing a lavish family dinner or a cozy meal for two, this creamy beef pasta offers a fulfilling experience that pleases every palate.
Ingredients
- 500g ground beef
- 250g pasta of choice (penne or fusilli work great)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and equipment to make the cooking process seamless. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. Ensure your pasta of choice is readily available and bring all the ingredients close to your cooking station for easy access.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant. This will take around 2-3 minutes and creates a flavorful base for the dish.
Step 4: Brown the Beef
Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Break up any large chunks with your spoon to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the beef is browned, lower the heat back to medium. Add the beef broth, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly, which will happen in about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Mix the cooked pasta into the creamy beef sauce, stirring gently to coat all the noodles with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Beef Pasta
Serve the creamy beef pasta hot from the skillet, ideally in broad plates to appreciate its rustic charm. Pairing it with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread elevates the meal to a gourmet experience. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese can further enrich its flavor profile.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure success with your creamy beef pasta, ensure your pasta is cooked to the correct texture, known as al dente. Adjust seasoning gradually as you combine the sauce and pasta to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. For added depth, a splash of red wine in the sauce can beautifully complement the beef.
Protein-Packed Deliciousness: The High-Protein Twist
Boost the protein content of your creamy beef pasta by using alternative pasta made from lentils or chickpeas. These options not only raise the protein content but also add a nutty flavor that pairs deliciously with the creamy sauce. Additionally, you can incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach to inject more nutrients while maintaining the dish’s hearty texture.
Low on Carbs, Big on Flavor: The Low-Carb Alternative
For a low-carb rendition, replace traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. These low-carb alternatives absorb the creamy sauce just as well, providing you a lighter, yet equally indulgent meal that’s ideal for varied dietary preferences. Balancing the rich sauce with vibrant, fresh vegetables helps maintain a satisfying dish that won’t weigh you down.
Storage Instructions
Leftover creamy beef pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to restore its original creamy consistency. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the sauce can change during defrosting.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, substituting chicken for beef will still give you a delicious dish with a slight variation in flavor.
- What type of pasta works best? Short pasta types like penne or fusilli work best for blending well with the sauce.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
- Is there a vegetarian version? Use mushrooms and vegetable broth as a substitute for beef and beef broth for a vegetarian version.
A Final Taste of Deliciousness
This creamy beef pasta is the epitome of comfort food that brings a smile to anyone who indulges in its rich flavors. Try making it for your next cozy dinner, and get ready to receive endless compliments from satisfied diners. Share your experience and variations in the comments below, or spread the joy by sharing this recipe with your friends!
Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- pasta
- heavy cream
- beef broth
- onion
- garlic
- olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart any lumps.
- Lower heat, add beef broth, cream, and Italian seasoning, and simmer.
- Combine pasta with sauce, coat thoroughly. Adjust with pasta water as needed. Season, garnish, and serve.