Introduction
Transforming humble ground beef and pasta into a creamy, comforting masterpiece is easier than you think! This recipe is your weeknight savior, perfect for busy families who crave delicious, home-cooked meals without the fuss. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why This Works
This recipe hits all the right notes: it’s incredibly easy to follow, uses pantry staples, and delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that’s hard to resist. The creamy sauce perfectly coats the pasta and ground beef, creating a delightful texture and a taste that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s the perfect balance of simple and delicious!
Key Ingredients
- 🥩 1 lb ground beef
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍅 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 🥛 1 cup milk
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🍝 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2️⃣ Brown the beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3️⃣ Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4️⃣ Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5️⃣ Combine and cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6️⃣ Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, brown the ground beef with a little olive oil.
- Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the sauce.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley works too (use about 1 tablespoon).
Heat Control
Using medium-high heat for browning the beef ensures a nice sear without burning it. Lowering the heat to simmer the sauce prevents sticking and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Always be cautious when working with hot surfaces and simmering liquids.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on creamy texture, you can add a little crunch by topping the finished dish with some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth of flavor.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish isn’t typically gifted, but if you’re making it for a potluck, transport it in a disposable aluminum pan, covered tightly with foil.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
🌟 Mushroom: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an earthy twist.
🌟 Italian Sausage: Substitute Italian sausage for the ground beef for a heartier flavor.
🌟 Creamy Pesto: Stir in a cup of pesto with the cheese for a vibrant green color and basil flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Sauce too watery: Simmer the sauce for a longer period to reduce the liquid.
- Sauce too thick: Add a little more milk or pasta water to thin it out.
- Beef too dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the beef; drain off excess grease.
FAQ
Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: Absolutely! Penne, rotini, farfalle, and even spaghetti work well.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh parsley? A: Dried parsley is a fine substitute; use about 1 tablespoon.
Q: Can I freeze this? A: It’s best not to freeze this dish, as the texture may be affected.
Conclusion
This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s quick, easy, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try and share your experience with us on Rate My Recipes! We can’t wait to hear how much your family loves it!
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy Beef Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish loaded with savory beef, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautu00e9ing until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined and creamy. Cook for an additional 5 minutes on low heat.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta or substitute ground turkey for beef.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.