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: 18 May 2024

Updated: 31 January 2026

why make this recipe

This dish feels like a warm hug. It comes together fast. It fills the house with garlic and cheese. You get a cozy, creamy weeknight meal with little fuss. I keep a simple sauce on hand for busy nights. If you love rich, comforting pasta, this creamy beef pasta will become a go-to.

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

If you want a silkier, lighter sauce, I sometimes borrow a trick from my creamy pasta recipe for thinning without losing flavor.

how to serve Creamy Beef Pasta

Serve this right from the pan. Top with extra Parmesan. Add chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. I love pairing it with a crisp salad or a buttery roll. For a vegetable-packed side idea, try my creamy rotisserie chicken and broccoli pasta — it brings bright greens to the table.

how to store Creamy Beef Pasta

Cool the pasta to room temperature before storing. Transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce. If you prefer, freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. For reheating tips and a different make-ahead idea, see my notes on the rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta — the reheating tricks work the same way.

tips to make Creamy Beef Pasta

Use lean ground beef to avoid a greasy sauce.
Save some pasta water. It helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
Grate fresh Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
Don’t boil the cream. Keep the heat low when you add it.
Make this for potlucks with a side of my creamy bacon cheddar ranch pasta salad. Guests love the contrast.

variation (if any)

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage. Stir in spinach or mushrooms for extra veg. Use penne, rigatoni, or shells. For a smoky twist, add a little smoked paprika or crisp bacon. These small swaps keep the dish fresh and easy.

FAQs

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes. Whole milk works, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Add a little cream cheese or extra Parmesan to thicken if you like.

Q: How do I keep the sauce from separating?
A: Cook the cream on low heat and add pasta water slowly. Stir constantly when you add the cheese. Do not boil after adding the dairy.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat. Season well and follow the same steps.

Creamy Beef Pasta

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