Indulging in a plate of creamy beef pasta can be one of life’s simple pleasures. I remember the first time I made this dish for a cozy family night—it was a hit from the first bite. The creamy sauce enveloping the penne and tender ground beef creates a satisfying harmony of flavors that can warm the heart and soul. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, taking minimal time and effort while delivering maximum flavor.
What makes this creamy beef pasta special is its velvety texture and rich taste, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering, this dish can easily impress. With just a handful of ingredients that deliver big flavor, everyone at your table will be asking for seconds.
Why you’ll love this
- Takes only 30 minutes to prepare.
- Rich and creamy flavor that’s comforting.
- A great balance of protein and carbs.
- Can be made ahead and reheated for convenience.
- Uses pantry staples, keeping costs down.
"Easily my new favorite pasta dish—so creamy and full of flavor!"
How this recipe comes together
Making creamy beef pasta is a straightforward process. You will cook the penne pasta, sauté aromatics, brown ground beef, and incorporate heavy cream and cheese to create a luscious sauce. In just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that feels indulgent yet is entirely accessible.
What 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
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Penne Pasta: Any short pasta can work, such as rigatoni or fusilli.
- Lean Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Heavy Cream: Half-and-half can be used for a lighter cream sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano is an excellent alternative for a sharper flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
To make creamy beef pasta, follow these simple steps. The result will be a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy.
- Cook the penne according to the 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, approximately 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired sauce consistency.
- Mix in grated Parmesan until melted and combined.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Pro Tip: Make sure to reserve that pasta water! It’s a fantastic tool for adjusting the creaminess of your sauce.
Visual doneness cues
- The onions should be translucent and fragrant.
- The ground beef should be evenly browned with no pink visible.
- The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
Helpful cooking tips
- Timing is crucial: Ensure your pasta is ready when the sauce is finished for a seamless experience.
- Adjust creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Flavor depth: Let the beef brown properly to maximize flavor, which should take around 7 minutes.
- Taste as you go: Always check seasoning before serving to ensure everything is balanced.
Best ways to enjoy it
This creamy beef pasta is best served piping hot. You can garnish it with extra grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine to complete the meal. It’s also delicious with garlic bread on the side for those extra hungry diners.
Storage & reheating tips
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours. This creamy beef pasta will be good in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, return it to a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
How to fix common issues
- If the pasta comes out too dry, add more pasta water or cream.
- If the sauce separates, stir in a bit more cream on low heat to bring it back together.
- To avoid bland flavors, always taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- If your pasta is overly soft, be cautious during the next cooking session—aim for al dente.
Recipe variations
For different flavors in your creamy beef pasta, consider these options:
- Vegetable Add-ins: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can add color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Introduce red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Different Cheeses: Swap Parmesan for Gouda or Mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can elevate the flavor profile.
Common questions
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds nutrition and fiber, while gluten-free pasta works for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure you cook according to the package instructions for best results.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and refrigerate it until you’re ready to combine with freshly cooked pasta. This makes for a quick meal on busy nights.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute it with half-and-half, milk with a bit of flour to thicken, or even a non-dairy milk alternative blended with cornstarch for thickness.
How can I make it creamier?
To enhance the creaminess, increase the amount of heavy cream or add a splash of reserved pasta water while tossing the pasta with the sauce.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, though the texture may slightly change, you can freeze your creamy beef pasta in a freezer-safe container. When reheating, add a bit of cream or water to help regain its creamy texture.
Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- 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, approximately 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired sauce consistency.
- Mix in grated Parmesan until melted and combined.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.