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If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty dish that the entire family will enjoy, this Creamy Beef Pasta is just what you need! The combination of tender penne pasta, rich ground beef, and a luxurious cream sauce makes it a weeknight winner. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for serving after a busy day, all while being quick enough for any home cook to whip up.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef Pasta:
- Flavorful: The creamy sauce blended with Italian seasonings offers a delightful taste that satisfies.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, this dish appeals to all age groups.
- Flexible: Easily adapted to include your favorite veggies or alternate proteins!
Ingredients Needed:
- Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- Protein:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Aromatics:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- Spices:
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking Fat:
- 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- 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.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Beef Pasta
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to elevate your meal. A glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade can also round out the dining experience beautifully.
Tips for Success with Creamy Beef Pasta
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it remains al dente and doesn’t get mushy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion will give a vibrant flavor to the sauce.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning according to your family’s preferences for more spice or herbs.
- Protein Variations: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist.
Variations
- Veggie Loaded: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a nutrient boost and added flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or fontina, to change up the flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess of the sauce.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet, adding a little water or cream to bring back the sauce’s consistency.
Enjoy indulging in this comforting Creamy Beef Pasta, and don’t forget to save it for your next family dinner or casual gathering!
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta Cook according to package instructions.
Protein
- 1 lb lean ground beef Can substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a cheesy flavor.
Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives vibrant flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced Use fresh for best flavor.
Spices
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning Adjust to taste.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season to your preference.
Cooking Fat
- 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
Cooking the Sauce
- 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.
Combining
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
