Creamy Ground Beef Pasta on the Stovetop Recipe
Introduction
This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy nights. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it combines savory beef and tender pasta in a rich, creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces pasta (any short pasta like penne or rotini)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the beef and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Pour in 3 cups of water and add the pasta to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the water is absorbed (about 10-12 minutes).
- Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes before serving to thicken slightly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add chopped onions with the garlic or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter dish, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Use any cheese you like; Parmesan adds a sharper taste, while mozzarella gives a mild, gooey texture.
- Add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta types for this recipe?
Yes, any short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli work well because they hold the sauce nicely. Avoid very delicate pasta like angel hair, which may overcook with this method.
Is it necessary to drain the fat from the ground beef?
Draining excess fat depends on your preference and the leanness of the beef. If your beef is very fatty, draining helps avoid a greasy sauce, but if it’s lean, you can leave it for extra flavor.
PrintCreamy Ground Beef Pasta on the Stovetop Recipe
This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a quick and delicious one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is cooked with pasta and then combined with a rich, creamy garlic sauce and melted cheese for a comforting dish that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or elbow macaroni)
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Pasta and Water: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet with the ground beef. Pour in enough water to cover the pasta by about an inch. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer Pasta and Beef: Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the water has been absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and heavy cream into the beef and pasta mixture. Continue cooking over low heat for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and stir until melted and incorporated, creating a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot for a creamy, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance the nutrition and flavor.
- Use pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as penne or rotini.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta during the simmering stage to avoid a mushy texture.
Keywords: ground beef pasta, creamy pasta, one-pan recipe, quick dinner, stovetop pasta, comfort food
