Go Back
Creamy Beef Pasta, a delicious featured image showcasing a rich and comforting pasta dish.

Easy Creamy Beef Pasta

This Creamy Beef Pasta recipe is a comforting and delicious weeknight meal. It features tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety cream sauce that coats every strand, making it a satisfying and easy-to-customize dinner option.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or your favorite shape
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Spoon
  • whisk
  • large pot
  • colander
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  6. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  7. Gradually whisk in the milk and beef broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps.
  8. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
  9. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  11. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain well.
  12. Add the cooked pasta and the browned beef mixture to the creamy sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
  13. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
  14. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a little more milk or beef broth. If the sauce is too thin, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and then whisk this slurry into the sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for a minute or two until thickened. Add red pepper flakes for heat, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar. Add chopped vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini to the beef while it's cooking. Use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a depth of flavor.