introduction
I make this creamy beef pasta when I want a quick, simple, and filling meal. It uses basic ingredients and comes together fast. If you like creamy pasta, try our creamy chicken pot pie pasta recipe for another easy meal.
why make this recipe
This dish is simple, fast, and comforting. You get protein, pasta, and a rich sauce with little effort. It fits weeknight dinners and works well for picky eaters.
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 the beef 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
Serve it hot in bowls. Add extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley. Pair with a simple salad or garlic bread.
how to store Creamy Beef Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
tips to make Creamy Beef Pasta
– Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce and help it stick to the pasta.
– Do not boil the cream; heat gently to avoid curdling.
– Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
– Use fresh grated Parmesan for best melt and flavor.
variation (if any)
You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms. Swap penne for fusilli or rigatoni. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta type?
A: Yes. Any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni works well.
Q: Can I make this ahead and freeze it?
A: You can freeze, but the cream sauce may change texture. Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat slowly with a little milk.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes. Ground turkey works fine and makes the dish leaner.
Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A: Let it simmer a little longer to reduce, or add more grated Parmesan.
Conclusion
This creamy beef pasta is quick and satisfying for busy nights; for a one-pot tomato version you might like to try this one pot creamy tomato beef pasta recipe.