Creamy Beef Pasta
A quick and hearty pasta dish with creamy texture, savory beef, and robust flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta Can substitute with other types like rigatoni or fusilli.
- 1 lb lean ground beef Alternative options include ground turkey or chicken.
Creamy Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half or plant-based alternatives.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For serving, additional Parmesan or fresh parsley can be used.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tsp olive oil Used for sautéing.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later.
Sautéing Ingredients
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
- Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart as it cooks and brown it for about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Making the Sauce
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
Combining the Dish
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess. Can freeze for up to 3 months.