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

Author: Emily

Published: 28 December 2025

There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of pasta, don’t you think? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! This Creamy Beef Pasta recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or when you just need a little something cozy. With rich flavors and creamy goodness, it’s a dish that even the pickiest eaters will love. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for beginners.

Why make this recipe

Why should you make this creamy delight? First off, it’s quick! You can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes. Second, it’s filling and satisfying, perfect after a long day. Finally, this dish brings everyone together. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a quiet dinner at home, this pasta is sure to create smiles all around.

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

Creamy Beef Pasta

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 the olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks until it’s nicely browned, around 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
Toss in the grated Parmesan and mix until melted into the sauce.
Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if you like.

How to serve Creamy Beef Pasta

Serve this dish atop a cozy dinner table. It’s fantastic with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for that cheesy finish. Your guests will feel right at home!

How to store Creamy Beef Pasta

Got leftovers? Just let the pasta cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay good for about 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce. It’s just as delicious the next day!

Tips to make Creamy Beef Pasta

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your beef is cooked through. It should reach 160°F.
If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes when seasoning the beef.
Feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in with the meat while it cooks.

Variation

Want to switch things up? You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Both would be just as scrumptious. You could even swap in a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.

Creamy Beef Pasta

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta will work, but penne holds the sauce nicely. Try rigatoni or fusilli for a change.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter. The sauce might be a bit lighter, but still tasty!

Is this recipe freezable?
Yes! Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to enhance the creaminess.

More recipes? Follow me on Facebook – Pinterest