Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender ground beef, rich cream, melted cheese, and tomato sauce, it delivers delicious flavor in just one pan.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (such as elbow macaroni or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 2: Add the pasta to the skillet along with enough water to cover it by about an inch. Bring to a simmer and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheese, and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine and reduce heat to low.
- Step 4: Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings to taste.
- Step 5: Serve warm and enjoy your creamy ground beef pasta!
Tips & Variations
- Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavor and texture.
- Add sautéed onions or garlic with the beef for extra depth.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Mix in some spinach or mushrooms for added vegetables.
Storage
Store leftovers 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 water if the sauce is too thick.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, most short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work well with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it creamy without dairy.
PrintStovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines savory ground beef with tender pasta, all coated in a rich and creamy tomato cheese sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is simple to make with minimal ingredients and delivers a deliciously creamy and hearty pasta that the whole family will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (such as elbow macaroni or penne)
Sauces and Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add pasta to the skillet: Stir in 8 ounces of uncooked pasta, making sure the pasta is evenly distributed with the beef in the skillet.
- Add cream, cheese, and tomato sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and 1 cup of tomato sauce. Stir everything together to combine into a creamy mixture.
- Simmer until creamy and pasta is tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Notes
- You can substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Adjust cheese type and amount to your taste preferences.
- Ensure to stir occasionally during simmering to avoid pasta sticking to the pan.
Keywords: ground beef pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner, one skillet meal, comfort food, quick pasta recipe
