When you crave comfort food that feels like a warm hug after a long day, there’s nothing quite like creamy, dreamy pasta dishes. Stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a delightful marriage of tender pasta, savory beef, and luscious cream that comes together in just one pot. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you have unexpected guests, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. It’s become a family favorite in my home, offering the kind of richness that makes ordinary evenings feel special, all while being budget-friendly.
Why this dish shines in your kitchen
What makes stovetop creamy ground beef pasta so special? First and foremost, it’s a friendly dish that brings everyone to the table, kids included! The combination of flavors is rich yet approachable, making it the ultimate comfort food. It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights. You can easily customize it according to your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.
"This dish has become our go-to for busy Thursday nights—it’s creamy, filling, and always a hit with the kids!"
The cooking process simplified
Making stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a straightforward affair. You’re looking at five simple steps that lead you from raw ingredients to a cozy bowl of goodness. Here’s a quick overview of how this meal will come together:
- Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic.
- Add the broth and pasta, letting it simmer till the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the cream and cheese to create that dreamy sauce.
- Season to taste and enjoy!
Gather these items
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Feel free to play around with ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. For example, ground turkey can be a leaner alternative to beef, or you can use any type of pasta you prefer!
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s dive into the cooking!
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and allow it to brown, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
Stir in the diced onion and let it soften for about 3-4 minutes. You want it translucent and fragrant. Next, add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell its lovely aroma.
Sprinkle paprika, salt, and black pepper into the skillet, distributing the seasoning thoroughly among the beef and veggies.
Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. When simmering, toss in the rotini pasta. Be sure to cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook on medium-low heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once your pasta achieves the right tenderness, pour in the heavy cream followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together, letting the cheese melt into a creamy masterpiece. Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving hot.
Best ways to enjoy it
For a delightful meal experience, consider serving this creamy pasta alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. Top it with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You could even pair it with garlic bread for an indulgent treat!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing leftovers is simple! Place any unused portion in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen in a suitable container for about 2-3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and be aware that creamy sauces may separate when reheated.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some useful tips to enhance your cooking experience:
- Browning the beef well adds great depth of flavor to the dish, so don’t rush this step!
- To speed up cooking time, have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start.
- For extra creaminess, try stirring in a tablespoon of cream cheese before adding the heavy cream.
Creative twists
This recipe has countless variations! You could spice things up by incorporating diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. Want a little heat? Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes. For a healthier take, consider adding spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a nutritious boost.
Your questions answered
How long does this dish take to prepare?
The prep time is around 10 minutes, and it cooks in about 20 minutes, making a total time of about 30 minutes.Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta will work, like penne or fusilli.Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! It freezes well, although the cream may alter in texture upon reheating. For best results, consume within 2-3 months.What’s a good vegetarian substitution?
You can swap the beef for a plant-based ground substitute and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version!
Stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a slice of comfort that brings everyone together. Give it a try, and I promise it will find a special place in your recipe rotation!
Print
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful one-pot pasta dish featuring tender rotini, savory ground beef, and a luscious creamy sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef for 5-7 minutes, draining excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer, then add rotini pasta, cover, and cook on medium-low for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is tender, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until creamy, then adjust seasoning and serve hot.
Notes
Serve with a garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American