There’s something irresistibly satisfying about a Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe—rich, savory, and ready in under 30 minutes. This comforting dish combines tender pasta, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a luscious, cheesy cream sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re craving an easy weeknight meal or planning a cozy family dinner, this creamy beef pasta delivers full flavor with minimal effort.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!It’s a one-pot wonder that merges convenience with indulgence—no fancy skills required, just honest ingredients and simple steps. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious ground beef pasta that’s guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Quick and easy – From start to finish, this meal takes about 30 minutes.
Budget-friendly – Made with pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
Cheesy and creamy – A luxurious sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella.
One-pot perfection – Less cleanup, more flavor.
Family-approved – Kids and adults both love this comforting flavor.
Customizable – Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Comfort food classic – Warm, rich, and satisfying for any season.
Flavorful balance – Italian seasoning, garlic, and tomato paste create a perfect depth of taste.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or any short shape)
Tip: Short pasta holds the sauce better and keeps the texture balanced.
For the Beef Mixture
1 lb ground beef – choose 85/15 for flavor and tenderness.
1 tbsp olive oil – helps brown the meat evenly.
1 small onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and aroma.
2 cloves garlic, minced – deepens the flavor base.
1 tsp Italian seasoning – infuses classic herb notes.
½ tsp salt + ¼ tsp black pepper – enhances every bite.
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – adds a mild kick.
1 tbsp tomato paste – builds a rich umami base.
1 cup beef broth – creates a savory foundation.
½ cup heavy cream – makes the sauce silky smooth.
For the Cheese Sauce
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – salty and nutty undertone.
1 cup shredded mozzarella – for that irresistible melt factor.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional).
Substitutions:
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist. For dairy-free, replace cream with coconut milk and cheese with nutritional yeast.
How to Make the Perfect Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside—reserve ½ cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant. The base aroma is your first flavor layer—don’t rush it!
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown thoroughly until no pink remains. If necessary, drain excess fat. This step develops the savory, meaty depth essential for any creamy beef pasta.
Step 4: Build the Flavor
Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Let it cook for 2 minutes. This caramelizes the paste slightly, unlocking deeper flavor notes.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir occasionally—the mixture should look smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and the sauce fully coats the pasta. If too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water for a silky finish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, for that perfect comfort meal moment.
Pro Tips
How do I thicken the sauce naturally?
Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few minutes. The cream reduces slightly, and the cheese thickens it further without extra starch.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and pasta separately. Combine before serving to keep the texture creamy and fresh.
What’s the best pasta for creamy beef dishes?
Short, ridged pasta like penne or rotini works best because it holds onto the sauce and cheese.
Best Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe with:
Garlic bread or cheesy toast for a hearty combo.
A fresh Caesar or green salad for balance.
Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies for a complete dinner.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values per serving (1 ½ cups):
Calories: 610
Protein: 33g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Sodium: 720mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Absolutely. It will be slightly lighter but still creamy—just simmer longer for thickness.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check broth labels for gluten content.
How can I add vegetables?
Spinach, mushrooms, or peas make great additions. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking for texture and color.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta: Add extra chili flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce.
Cheesy Alfredo-style version: Mix in extra Parmesan and omit tomato paste for a white sauce base.
Tex-Mex twist: Add taco seasoning and top with cheddar for a fusion dish.
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Pasta Dinner: Cook pasta directly in the sauce to absorb all flavors.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delicious, easy, and family-friendly Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe that’s perfect for busy nights or comforting weekends. Each bite is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying, with creamy cheese coating tender pasta and seasoned beef in harmony.