Few things in life are as satisfying as a steaming plate of creamy pasta. This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta combines tender pasta with a luscious, savory sauce, making it a dish that instantly feels like home. Perfect for weeknights or whenever you’re craving comfort food, this recipe offers a balance of flavors that’s hard to beat.
It’s a recipe I’ve turned to countless times when I’ve needed a quick, hearty dinner. Whether it’s the kids shouting for food after soccer practice, unexpected guests showing up at dinner, or just me treating myself to a quiet evening with my favorite TV show, this pasta is my go-to. What I love most about it is its ability to adapt—it works for special occasions or no occasion at all.
When I was growing up, pasta night was always a big deal. My family would gather around the table, laughing and talking about our day, with the aroma of garlic and onions wafting through the air. This recipe brings back those memories while adding a modern twist. It’s a little indulgent, wonderfully creamy, and filled with flavors that remind me why simple food often tastes the best.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: You won’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- A Family Favorite: The creamy sauce and savory ground beef are a hit with both kids and adults. Everyone will be coming back for seconds!
- Uses Pantry Staples: No need for fancy ingredients—this recipe relies on items you probably already have on hand.
- One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to endless cleanup. Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup as easy as cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 12 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or any shape you prefer)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Let it sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns soft and translucent. This step is essential as it builds the flavor base of your dish. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until its aroma fills the kitchen.
Tip: Keep an eye on the garlic! It can burn quickly and turn bitter, so stir constantly and remove from heat promptly if it starts to brown.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently to ensure even browning. Once the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain off any excess fat, leaving just enough to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Seasoning
Now, lower the heat to medium and stir in the tomato paste. Let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This step intensifies the flavor and adds a touch of sweetness to the dish. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir to combine, giving the sauce that signature herbaceous aroma.
Personal Note: I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage for a gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
4. Incorporate Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking to create a smooth, rich sauce. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once the sauce starts to bubble, add the pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged.
Why cook the pasta in the sauce? This method not only saves time but also allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce as it cooks.
5. Cook the Pasta
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. By the time the pasta reaches an al dente texture, most of the liquid will have been absorbed, leaving you with a creamy, cohesive dish.
6. Finish and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Idea: Pair this pasta with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips:
- Pasta Selection: Opt for pasta shapes like shells or macaroni that hold the sauce well. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti, as they don’t work as effectively in this recipe.
- Boost the Flavor: If you want to take this dish up a notch, add a handful of shredded cheese (like Parmesan or mozzarella) to the sauce right before serving. It melts beautifully and adds an extra layer of richness.
- Make It Your Own: This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can swap the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat. Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Notes:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the sauce may separate upon thawing. To fix this, heat it gently and stir well before serving.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy spicy flavors, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper will add some heat without overpowering the dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 600mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
A: Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as alternative pastas may cook faster or slower.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?
A: The stovetop is ideal for reheating, as it allows you to control the consistency of the sauce by adding a bit of cream or broth.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, just make sure your skillet is large enough to hold the extra ingredients. You might also need to extend the cooking time slightly.
Related Recipes
If you loved this stovetop creamy ground beef pasta, try these comforting dishes:
Conclusion
This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is the kind of recipe that becomes a staple in your kitchen. Its quick prep, comforting flavors, and adaptability make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a rushed weeknight or a leisurely weekend dinner. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it disappears from the table!
Print
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta: A Weeknight Dinner That Feels Like a Hug in a Bowl
Description
Few things in life are as satisfying as a steaming plate of creamy pasta. This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta combines tender pasta with a luscious, savory sauce, making it a dish that instantly feels like home. Perfect for weeknights or whenever you’re craving comfort food, this recipe offers a balance of flavors that’s hard to beat.
It’s a recipe I’ve turned to countless times when I’ve needed a quick, hearty dinner. Whether it’s the kids shouting for food after soccer practice, unexpected guests showing up at dinner, or just me treating myself to a quiet evening with my favorite TV show, this pasta is my go-to. What I love most about it is its ability to adapt—it works for special occasions or no occasion at all.
When I was growing up, pasta night was always a big deal. My family would gather around the table, laughing and talking about our day, with the aroma of garlic and onions wafting through the air. This recipe brings back those memories while adding a modern twist. It’s a little indulgent, wonderfully creamy, and filled with flavors that remind me why simple food often tastes the best.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 12 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or any shape you prefer)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Let it sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns soft and translucent. This step is essential as it builds the flavor base of your dish. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until its aroma fills the kitchen.
Tip: Keep an eye on the garlic! It can burn quickly and turn bitter, so stir constantly and remove from heat promptly if it starts to brown.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently to ensure even browning. Once the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain off any excess fat, leaving just enough to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Seasoning
Now, lower the heat to medium and stir in the tomato paste. Let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This step intensifies the flavor and adds a touch of sweetness to the dish. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir to combine, giving the sauce that signature herbaceous aroma.
Personal Note: I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage for a gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
4. Incorporate Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking to create a smooth, rich sauce. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once the sauce starts to bubble, add the pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged.
Why cook the pasta in the sauce? This method not only saves time but also allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce as it cooks.
5. Cook the Pasta
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. By the time the pasta reaches an al dente texture, most of the liquid will have been absorbed, leaving you with a creamy, cohesive dish.
6. Finish and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the sauce may separate upon thawing. To fix this, heat it gently and stir well before serving.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy spicy flavors, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper will add some heat without overpowering the dish.