How to Make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
This creamy ground beef pasta is cooked in a single pan, making it an easy and mess-free recipe. Follow these steps to bring this delicious dish to life:
Step 1:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3:
Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 4:
Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Step 5:
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 6:
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If using diced tomatoes, stir them in at this stage.
Step 7:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes until heated through.
Step 8:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this rich and creamy pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
How Long to Cook Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
The total cooking time for this dish is relatively short, making it perfect for a quick meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated cooking times:
- Pasta Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (depending on the type of pasta)
- Browning the Ground Beef: 5-7 minutes
- Simmering the Sauce: 5-7 minutes
- Final Assembly & Heating: 2-3 minutes
In total, this creamy ground beef pasta can be ready in about 25-30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, they store well and can be enjoyed later with minimal effort. Here’s how to keep your creamy pasta fresh:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce.
- Freezer: While the dish can be frozen, the creamy sauce may change texture slightly. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips for the Best Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
To make this dish even better, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts much smoother.
- Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes.
- Try Different Cheeses – Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Gouda for a different flavor profile. A mix of cheeses can add more depth.
- Use Different Pasta Shapes – While rotini and fusilli work well, you can also try penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni for variety.
- Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Save this recipe and try it for a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone will love!
