Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a simple and tasty meal that brings together hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels comforting right from the first bite, with the perfect mix of meaty flavor and a smooth, cheesy sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
I love making this dish when I want something satisfying but not complicated. It comes together quickly, which means I get to enjoy it warm and fresh without spending hours in the kitchen. Adding a touch of garlic and a sprinkle of herbs always lifts the flavors for me, making it feel just a little bit special even on a busy night.
One of my favorite ways to serve Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is with a crisp green salad on the side and a glass of cold water or iced tea. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s great for family dinners or when friends come over, because everyone seems to love that creamy sauce and tender beef combined with pasta. Plus, leftovers taste just as good the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish, giving rich, meaty flavor. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. If you want a plant-based twist, use crumbled cooked lentils or a meatless ground substitute.
Pasta shells or rotini: These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce well. You can swap them with penne, fusilli, or any small pasta you like. Gluten-free pasta works fine if you need it.
Heavy cream: It makes the sauce smooth and rich. For a lighter alternative, try half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free option.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts nicely and gives a gentle flavor. Parmesan adds a salty punch. Feel free to mix in cheddar or fontina for extra flavor. Vegan cheese can be used, but it may change texture.
Beef broth: It adds depth. If you don’t have it, chicken broth or vegetable broth works well. Water with a splash of soy sauce is a shortcut, but broth tastes best.
How Can I Make the Creamy Sauce Thick and Smooth?
The creamy sauce is key for this recipe. To get it just right:
- After browning the beef, reduce the heat before adding cream to avoid curdling.
- Stir in cheese gradually, letting it melt slowly for a smooth sauce.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer gently to thicken or add a small sprinkle of cornstarch mixed in water.
- Keep stirring often to prevent sticking and keep the sauce creamy.
By taking your time with these steps, you’ll get a sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and beef for that satisfying creamy bite every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I like a big one so I can cook everything evenly and toss the pasta easily.
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta without crowding and making sure it cooks evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir the beef and sauce without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep your ingredients accurate for the best flavor.
- Colander – to drain the pasta quickly and easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. It’s lighter but still tasty.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to add texture and extra nutrition.
- Vary the cheese by adding cheddar, gouda, or even feta for different flavors.
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like some heat.
Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta shells or rotini
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy ground beef pasta recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick but satisfying weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta shells or rotini and cook according to the package directions until just tender (al dente). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until browned with no pink spots remaining. Drain off any excess fat.
Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring well.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce & Combine:
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat all the pasta with the creamy beef sauce.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix lightly to combine.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a touch of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Enjoy your delicious creamy ground beef pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the ground beef completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents extra moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini make great additions. Just cook them with the onions or separately and stir them in when you add the cream for a nutritious boost.