As a busy mom, you understand the struggle of getting a tasty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Creamy Beef Pasta is here to save the day. This comforting dish is simple to make, perfect for the whole family, and packed with flavor. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights when time is tight.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy Beef Pasta stands out as a go-to meal for families. First, it offers a great balance of carbs, protein, and dairy, making it a satisfying dish. Second, the ingredients are easy to find, and most are staples you probably already have at home. Your kids will love its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. Plus, it requires minimal prep and effort, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending time with your family.
How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
- 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
Directions
- 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 (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Creamy Beef Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that is quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- 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 (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For a twist, try using other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini. Leftovers store well for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
How to Serve
Creamy Beef Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies on the side. For a bit of freshness, consider adding some sliced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes. You could even sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a delightful finish. This dish also shines when served with garlic bread, making it a full meal that will leave everyone satisfied.
How to Store
Leftovers of Creamy Beef Pasta store well in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep. Place any extra pasta in an airtight container. It keeps for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or more pasta water to restore its creamy goodness.
Tips and Variations
- For added nutrition, toss in some spinach or cooked peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- If you want to spice things up, add red pepper flakes to the beef while it cooks.
- To make it lighter, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- You can also swap the penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini for a fun twist.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
What type of beef should I use?
Lean ground beef works best for this recipe, but ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you prefer.
How do I adjust the creaminess?
Add more or less heavy cream based on your preference. If you like a thicker sauce, use less pasta water when mixing.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef Pasta is the perfect recipe for busy families looking for a comforting meal that doesn’t take a lot of time. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Give it a try tonight and don’t forget to save this recipe for those busy weeknights ahead. Enjoy!
