Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

This creamy ground beef pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With a delicious combination of savory beef, creamy sauce, and melted mozzarella, this meal comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy nights when you want something comforting and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a hearty, comforting meal. The tender pasta, combined with the flavorful ground beef and creamy sauce, creates a balanced dish that’s rich in taste but not overly complicated to prepare. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your tastes, and it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or something that feels like a cozy treat, this creamy ground beef pasta won’t disappoint.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 12 oz shell pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the shell pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant.

4. Stir in the tomato paste and dried Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute to combine.

5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

6. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with ground plant-based protein or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.

• Cheese Options: Try using different types of cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, to change the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers to give it a spicy kick.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini will work well in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and meat sauce separately and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss it with the pasta and cheese.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the pasta with the sauce for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating.

What other cheeses can I use?

Besides mozzarella, you can use shredded cheddar, Gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different taste.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use low-fat cheese to cut down on the richness of the dish.

What should I serve with this pasta?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables would complement this creamy pasta perfectly.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer for a little longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, this creamy pasta is very kid-friendly with its mild flavors and comforting texture.

Conclusion

This creamy ground beef pasta is the ideal weeknight meal: quick, hearty, and satisfying. The combination of beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates a comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a cozy dinner by yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.