Description
This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is sautéed with aromatic onions and garlic, then simmered with Italian seasoning, beef broth, and diced tomatoes to create a rich sauce. Cream and Parmesan cheese add a luscious creaminess, all tossed with tender pasta for a satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquid Ingredients
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Carbohydrates and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Drain the canned diced tomatoes and measure out the other ingredients to have everything ready for cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and the drained diced tomatoes. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the Pasta in the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add 2 cups of uncooked pasta directly to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is tender, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes to let the sauce thicken and become creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley if using, for a fresh, herbaceous note. Serve the creamy ground beef pasta immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but expect a slightly less creamy sauce.
- You can use any short pasta shape such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni; the cooking time may vary slightly.
- To add some heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes when adding the seasonings.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Parmesan cheese enhances the savory depth; feel free to add more to taste.
