Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s both hearty and indulgent, let me introduce you to my favorite Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe. This one-pot wonder is incredibly easy to make but tastes like you spent hours on it. I absolutely love how the rich, cheesy sauce clings to every bite of perfectly cooked pasta, and the savory ground beef makes it super satisfying. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to dinner in your rotation!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have or can easily find. The combo of ground beef and sharp cheeses is a classic one, and the shallot adds a nice subtle sweetness without overpowering the dish.

• Unsalted Butter: Helps brown the beef evenly and adds richness to the base.
• Ground Beef: I prefer grass-fed for a deeper flavor, but any beef will do.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Key for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
• Garlic Powder: Adds that extra punch without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic.
• Shallot: Finely chopped for a mild onion flavor that really elevates the dish.
• Dried Short-Cut Pasta: Rigatoni is my go-to because it holds the sauce well, but penne or ziti work great too.
• Chicken or Beef Broth: This is what cooks the pasta and infuses it with savory depth.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy without needing a roux.
• Sharp White Cheddar Cheese: Gives the sauce a tangy bite that balances the richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds saltiness and umami that can’t be beat.

Variations

I love that this recipe is really flexible, so you can tweak it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Play around with different cheeses or add-ins to make it your own.

• Add Veggies: I sometimes toss in chopped spinach or mushrooms for a veggie boost — it sneaks in some greens without kids noticing.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative; just adjust the seasoning to keep it flavorful.
• Different Meat: Ground turkey or sausage work well too if you want a lighter or different flavor.

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef Perfectly

Start by melting butter in a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want to get a nice, even brown on the meat — this usually takes about 6-7 minutes. Once browned, season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder to bring out the flavors. This step really builds the foundation for your dish.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots for Sweetness

Throw in the finely chopped shallot and stir to combine. Cook it with the beef for another 4-5 minutes until the shallot softens and becomes fragrant. I discovered this step adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef perfectly.

Step 3: Cook Pasta in Broth

Add your dried pasta directly into the pot along with the broth. Stir everything so the pasta is fully submerged. Cover with a lid and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through. You’re aiming for the pasta to be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). This technique saves you from boiling pasta separately and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Turn off the heat and pour in the heavy cream, shredded sharp cheddar, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir gently but thoroughly until the cheese melts and the sauce turns silky and creamy. Cover and let it rest for at least 10 minutes so all those flavors meld together. This resting period is a game-changer — it thickens up the sauce without any extra fuss.

How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a bit more grated parmesan on top and toss on some freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes a dash of crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice zing that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich, so I like to serve it alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus also pair beautifully and make the meal feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties or special occasions, I love serving this creamy ground beef pasta in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for individual portions. It feels fancy but is totally doable, and guests always comment on the presentation. Bonus: it keeps the pasta warm longer!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover creamy ground beef pasta in an airtight container in the fridge, and it keeps well for up to 3 days. When you reheat, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

Freezing

Freezing works, but I recommend freezing the pasta and sauce separately if possible for best texture. Otherwise, the cream sauce can separate a little when reheated. I learned this the hard way but it’s still tasty and convenient!

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or cream, stirring often. Microwaving works too, but stirring every minute or so helps keep the sauce smooth and prevents clumps.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I’ve made it countless times for family dinners, casual get-togethers, and sometimes just for myself when I need a little extra comfort. It’s straightforward, so you can focus on enjoying time with your loved ones instead of stressing in the kitchen. Give it a go – I promise it’s worth every bite!

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