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Creamy Beef Pasta 2025 12 09 095516 150x150 1

Creamy Beef Pasta

A creamy, savory delight that transforms any midweek meal into something special with just one pan for easy cleanup.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Beef Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta Cook according to package instructions
  • 1 lb lean ground beef Can swap with ground turkey or chicken

Creamy Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Toasting enhances flavor
  • 1 medium onion, diced Sauté with garlic
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Add until melted
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning For flavorful seasoning
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
  • 2 tsp olive oil For sautéing

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the penne pasta 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.

Cooking

  • Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart, until browned, about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached.
  • Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
  • Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.

Serving

  • Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or extra cream.
Keyword Budget Friendly, Creamy Beef Pasta, Easy Pasta Recipe, Family Friendly Meals, One Pan Dinner