Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 6
A Simple Yet Comforting Dish for Busy Weeknights
Looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day? This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is your answer! With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have a deliciously creamy, hearty dish on the table in no time. The combination of lean ground beef, tender pasta, and a luscious tomato-cream sauce seasoned with Italian herbs makes this a family favorite that never disappoints.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage)
- 12 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with whole milk or coconut milk for a twist)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Remove excess fat if necessary. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
- Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add onions and garlic to the empty side, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Create the Sauce:
- Stir in tomato paste and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1 minute to enhance the flavor. Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water, ¼ cup at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Add Cheese:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for a burst of flavor.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore moisture.
A Meal to Remember
This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple, satisfying cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you need a quick comfort meal, it’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
