There’s something so comforting about a bowl of creamy cheesy beef pasta. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma wafted through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It’s a heartwarming meal that brings smiles and satisfaction, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned cooks.
What makes this creamy cheesy beef pasta special is the rich, velvety sauce combined with the distinct savory flavor of ground beef. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of textures—creamy, cheesy, and slightly chewy from the pasta. It’s a filling dish that pleases the whole family and is likely to become a favorite in your household.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick prep time fits into a busy schedule.
- Layers of flavor from simple, accessible ingredients.
- One-pot meal means fewer dishes to wash later.
- Comforting and hearty, perfect for chilly nights.
- Easily make-ahead for stress-free dinners.
"This creamy cheesy beef pasta is comfort food heaven!"
Preparing it: quick look
Making creamy cheesy beef pasta is a straightforward process. You’ll start by sautéing onion and garlic, then brown the ground beef. Once that’s done, you’ll add beef broth and pasta, allowing everything to cook together until tender. After mixing in cream cheese and cheddar, it’s ready to serve and enjoy!
What you’ll need
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Elbow macaroni: Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape like penne or rotini.
- Ground beef: Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version.
- Cheese: Instead of cheddar, try pepper jack for added spice or a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.
- Cream cheese: Greek yogurt or sour cream can be a lighter alternative, though the texture will differ.
How to make it
Creating this creamy cheesy beef pasta is simple. You’ll start with basic ingredients, and after a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish light.
- Stir in beef broth and bring to a boil, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed, reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. The cheese should be luxurious and blended well with the pasta.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy!
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this comforting dish.
Helpful cooking tips
- Sauté onion and garlic until golden: This step enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta: You want it to remain slightly firm since it will continue to cook a bit in the sauce.
- Adjust the consistency: If the pasta appears too dry, you can add a bit more beef broth or water until it reaches your desired creaminess.
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltiness.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish can be plated simply or dressed up for special occasions. For a casual family dinner, serve the creamy cheesy beef pasta in bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. You might also consider pairing it with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. This comforting dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed any way you choose.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This creamy cheesy beef pasta can be kept for a few days, and the flavors continue to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of beef broth for moisture, and it will taste as good as new.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If your creamy cheesy beef pasta turns out dry, make sure to use enough beef broth or add a little water when reheating. In case it feels bland, amp up the seasoning or add grated cheese as it warms. For a soupy texture, reduce the broth next time to achieve the desired creaminess.
Flavor twists
This creamy cheesy beef pasta can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. You could add in some spinach or kale for a healthy boost, or mix in roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or using different cheese varieties for a unique taste.
Common questions
Can I use different types of pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure perfect texture.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Creamy cheesy beef pasta is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can cook a large batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Store it in airtight containers, and it will keep well in the fridge.
Can I freeze creamy cheesy beef pasta?
You can freeze this dish, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and store for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat creamy cheesy beef pasta is on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to help restore moisture and stir frequently until heated through. This ensures a creamy texture without drying out the pasta.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Veggies such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic at the start, or mix them in with the pasta towards the end of cooking.
Creamy Cheesy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot.