If you are looking for a comforting weeknight dinner that comes together quickly yet packs a punch of flavor, this Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. With tender pasta coated in a luscious, savory sauce dotted with perfectly browned ground beef and a subtle tang from tomato and mustard, this dish offers warmth, satisfaction, and simplicity all in one bowl. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is as straightforward as it is irresistible, making it a true kitchen winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe shines because of its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component works together to create a balance of flavors, textures, and colors that will make your taste buds dance.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite shape for that perfect al dente bite that holds the sauce well.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Brings a sweet, savory base that deepens the flavor.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory depth without too much fat.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with that unmistakable punch of warmth and fragrance.
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds bright acidity and juicy texture to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor while thickening the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity that elevate the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of fragrant herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates the silky, creamy texture that makes this pasta irresistibly smooth.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste): A salty, nutty topping that adds an extra layer of indulgence.
How to Make Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente Perfection
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water, then add your pasta. Cooking it al dente according to package directions ensures the pasta remains firm enough to hold up against the creamy sauce without turning mushy. This texture contrast is key to the dish’s appeal.
Step 2: Sauté Onions in Olive Oil
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or your favorite Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. This simple step builds the flavor foundation of the entire dish.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef and Garlic
Add the ground beef and minced garlic directly to the skillet with the onions. Cook for roughly 8 minutes, breaking the beef up with your spoon as it browns evenly. Browning the beef deeply develops the savory rich notes that make this Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe so comforting. If any excess fat accumulates, don’t hesitate to spoon it out for a cleaner sauce.
Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, and Seasonings
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Let this mixture simmer for about 4 to 5 minutes so the liquids reduce slightly and all those flavors meld into a harmonious sauce that’s bright, tangy, and just the right amount of herbal.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Finish Cooking
Pour in the heavy cream and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes. This step warms through the cream and allows it to thicken gently, transforming the sauce into that irresistible, silky texture that clings to every strand of pasta.
Step 6: Season and Combine with Pasta
Give the sauce a generous seasoning with salt and pepper to taste; this final adjustment makes all the difference. Toss in the drained pasta and mix thoroughly to coat every bite. For an optional finishing touch, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top to add a nutty, salty layer of indulgence.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can brighten and elevate this dish visually and taste-wise. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and an herbaceous note. A few red pepper flakes can add a gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, such as a classic Caesar or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices also make a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta in rustic bowls for a cozy, home-style feel or plate it elegantly with a drizzle of good quality olive oil and a parmesan crisp on the side for dinner guests. For a fun twist, portion it into individual ramekins and broil the cheeses on top until golden brown for a bubbly, decadent finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to develop overnight, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it before refrigerating to maintain the texture.
Freezing
This pasta keeps in the freezer for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and simply defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for a convenient future meal.
Reheating
Reheat your creamy ground beef pasta gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of milk or cream if it feels too thick. Alternatively, microwaving in short bursts with stirring in between works well to warm it evenly without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is versatile, so you can swap in penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti depending on your preference. Just ensure the pasta cooks al dente for the best texture.
Is it okay to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used to make a lighter version. Just keep in mind these meats are leaner, so you might need to add a bit more olive oil to maintain richness in the sauce.
What’s the purpose of the Dijon mustard in this recipe?
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor that balances the richness of the cream and beef. It’s a small ingredient that makes a big difference in creating a complex, well-rounded sauce.
Can I reduce the cream or substitute it?
You can reduce the cream slightly for a lighter sauce or substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as silky and rich. For dairy-free options, consider using coconut cream, but expect a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions or sprinkle them on top as a garnish. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce during simmering for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when craving a meal that feels both cozy and special without any fuss. It hits that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and comforting in every forkful. I truly encourage you to try it—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a comforting and delicious weeknight meal that combines tender pasta with a rich, savory cream sauce made from ground beef, tomatoes, and fragrant seasonings. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a salted pot of water and cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned. Spoon out excess fat if there is a lot.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes with juices, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce has reduced slightly.
- Incorporate Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and cook for another 3-5 minutes to warm through and thicken the sauce a bit.
- Season and Combine: Add salt and pepper generously to taste. Then toss the drained pasta with the sauce until well combined.
- Serve: Plate the creamy ground beef pasta and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Using lean ground beef keeps the sauce from becoming too greasy, but you can adjust based on preference.
- Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth to the sauce but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Pasta types like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well to hold the sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
