Print

Creamy Beef Pasta

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A comforting one-skillet pasta dish featuring ground beef and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente according to package directions. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.
  2. Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon and cook until fully browned, about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the cream warm gently—do not let it come to a rapid boil.
  5. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches the consistency you like. Stir in the grated Parmesan and continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Add the drained penne to the skillet. Toss gently to coat every piece of pasta in the sauce. If it seems thick, add another splash of reserved pasta water.
  7. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based ground alternative and vegetable broth. Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/creamy-beef-pasta-5/