Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients like ground beef, cream, and vegetables that deliver fantastic flavors.
Ease of Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this creamy beef pasta in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutrition: Packed with protein from the beef and essential nutrients from the onions and garlic, it’s a balanced meal.
Versatility: You can easily modify this dish to suit your taste, adding vegetables or different seasonings.
Presentation: The creamy sauce over pasta creates a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

This creamy beef pasta recipe is your perfect go-to for a satisfying meal!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tsp olive oil for sautéing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired sauce consistency is reached.
Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve the pasta in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful display.
Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to enhance your meal.
Portions: This recipe serves about four people, making it great for family dinners.
Beverage Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Elevate your dining experience with well-thought-out sides!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or fresh herbs for added freshness!
Customization: Toss in your favorite vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, for extra nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Try topping with crushed red pepper for spice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.

Recipe Variations

Cheesy Broccoli Beef Pasta: Add steamed broccoli to the pasta for a delicious twist and added nutrition.
Spicy Sausage Pasta: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a bolder flavor experience.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the sauce for a rich, earthy addition.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze, place in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Special Equipment

Large pot for boiling pasta
Skillet for sautéing
Wooden spoon for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander for draining pasta

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, frozen ground beef can be used; just ensure it’s thawed before cooking.

2. Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
It contains gluten and dairy. You could substitute gluten-free pasta and non-dairy cream for alternatives.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve.

4. How can I customize the flavor?
Feel free to add spices like paprika or more herbs to fit your taste preferences!

5. What cooking method should I use?
This recipe is best made on the stovetop, but you can adapt it to a slow cooker for a simmered flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy beef pasta is a fantastic dish that combines rich flavors and easy preparation, making it a winner for any occasion. It’s not only satisfying but also prompts smiles around the dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this recipe truly impresses with its taste and heartiness. So gather your ingredients and dive into this creamy goodness—you’ll be thrilled with the results!