Creamy Beef Pasta

Name: Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
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

Jack

Update : December 22, 2025

Creamy beef pasta dish with tender beef and rich sauce served in a bowl.

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Beef Pasta is a favorite dish for many families. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and full of flavor. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The ingredients are simple, and you probably already have many of them at home. This dish can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy evenings.

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 the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in the grated Parmesan until melted.
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Beef Pasta

Serve Creamy Beef Pasta hot from the skillet. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley on top for added flavor and presentation. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal that everyone will love.

How to Store Creamy Beef Pasta

To store any leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Beef Pasta

Use a leaner ground beef to cut down on fat.
For extra veggies, include bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach in the skillet when sautéing the onion and garlic.
If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the beef.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe to suit your taste. For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber or replace the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a different flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini, fettuccine, or even spaghetti.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.

3. Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy beef pasta. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.