Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights. Combining tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a luscious creamy sauce, it delivers comforting flavors in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want a satisfying homemade dinner, this recipe is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean up after cooking.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices for a personalized touch.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work well)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

3. Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and drained diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, then add the uncooked pasta. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

4. Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Add Cheese

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

6. Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Possible Variations

• Vegetables: Stir in spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with Parmesan, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth is gluten-free.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of added cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal as they hold the sauce well and cook evenly.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s possible to freeze, the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating. If freezing, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well when reheating.

4. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Consider adding a tablespoon of butter or cream cheese for extra creaminess.

5. How can I make this healthier?

Use whole-grain pasta, lean ground beef, or ground turkey. You can also add more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.

6. What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this pasta.

7. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese works, but fresh cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce.

8. What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a small amount of broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.

9. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking.

10. Can I use canned cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a simple, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich, velvety sauce and hearty pasta, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, you can make it your own. Enjoy this comforting recipe and share it with loved ones!

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