Say hello to your new weeknight favorite: Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. This dish brings together hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and an ultra-creamy, cheesy sauce, all cooked in a single pan for minimal fuss and maximum comfort. Every bite is packed with cozy flavor, from the aromatic garlic and onion to the blend of Italian seasoning and paprika. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or just spoiling yourself, this recipe delivers that perfect melt-in-your-mouth, home-cooked goodness in under 30 minutes. Get ready to watch everyone come back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one has a starring role, bringing depth, creaminess, or a flavorful punch, making this dish feel like a true homemade classic every single time.
- Ground beef: Packs the dish with satisfying, savory flavor and protein—use lean for less fat, or regular for extra richness.
- Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and onion, setting the stage with Mediterranean undertones.
- Onion: Adds a gentle sweetness and aromatic base that melds beautifully with the meat.
- Garlic: Brings irresistible depth and fragrance; fresh is best for maximum flavor.
- Beef broth: Intensifies the savory goodness and creates the foundation for a luscious sauce.
- Milk: Delivers creaminess and a silky texture to the finished pasta.
- Uncooked pasta (penne or rotini): Cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all those wonderful flavors.
- Italian seasoning: Offers an herby, aromatic lift that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Paprika: Adds a gentle warmth and subtle smokiness—totally comforting!
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out the best in the other ingredients; add to taste.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts in to add sharp, nutty notes and an extra creamy finish.
- Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese: Turns the sauce into a gooey, dreamy masterpiece—choose whichever you prefer, or use a mix!
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Sprinkles of freshness and vibrant color at serving time.
How to Make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a roomy skillet set over medium heat. Add your ground beef and let it sizzle, breaking it apart as it cooks. This is your chance to build flavor—get it nicely browned and crumbly. If there’s excess fat, go ahead and drain it off for a creamier sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Now toss in the diced onion, letting it soften and mingle with the beef for about 3 to 4 minutes. When your kitchen smells amazing, stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—around 30 seconds. This duo lays the foundation for that unforgettable savory depth.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and milk, bringing plenty of savory and creamy elements into the pan. Sprinkle in the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, paprika, plus a pinch of salt and black pepper. Give everything a good stir so the pasta is evenly separated and soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Simmer to Tenderness
Bring the whole skillet to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally for 12 to 15 minutes, keeping an eye on the pasta so it cooks evenly and soaks up most of the liquid, becoming beautifully tender in the process.
Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Once the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened up, stir in the grated Parmesan and your choice of shredded cheese. Watch as everything melts and turns irresistibly creamy. Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for just a minute or two before serving, giving the flavors a moment to settle.
How to Serve Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Garnishes
For the finishing touch, sprinkle your Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta with freshly chopped parsley. This bright pop of color and freshness cuts through the richness and makes the dish look as inviting as it tastes. If you’re feeling cheesy, a dusting of extra Parmesan never hurts!
Side Dishes
This dish is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess, while garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are perfect for scooping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with a swirl of extra cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. You can even fill bell pepper halves or hollowed-out bread bowls with the finished pasta for an unexpected, crowd-pleasing presentation—perfect for gatherings or a playful family dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, it stores like a dream. Simply cool the pasta to room temperature, then seal it in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days, making an easy lunch the next day just a microwave away!
Freezing
While this pasta is at its creamy best fresh, you can freeze it for up to two months if needed. To do so, spoon single portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, lay them flat, and freeze. When you’re ready for another round, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
To revive leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth to help loosen the sauce before reheating gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Heat slowly, stirring occasionally, until steaming hot and creamy—just like when it was first made!
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are both fantastic alternatives for a lighter version of Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. You’ll still get delicious results with a slightly different flavor profile.
Do I have to use penne or rotini pasta?
Not at all—any short pasta shape with grooves or twists will do, as they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Fusilli, shells, or even elbow macaroni make for excellent swaps.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Toss in a handful of baby spinach, frozen peas, or steamed broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add vibrant color and a nutritional boost without much extra effort.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep in mind that gluten-free varieties may cook a little faster, so watch the texture and check for doneness early.
What can I do if my sauce is too runny or too thick?
If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a couple more minutes uncovered until it thickens up. Too thick? Simply stir in an extra splash of milk or broth to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for something cozy and satisfying that doesn’t take hours to prepare, this Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is your answer. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, delivering pure comfort with every cheesy, savory forkful. Give it a try tonight—you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!
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Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal with this Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta recipe. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner, this one-pot pasta dish is rich, creamy, and loaded with savory flavors. The combination of tender ground beef, creamy cheeses, and aromatic seasonings makes it a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Creamy Ground Beef Pasta:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Saute onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the beef broth and milk, then add the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Add cheeses: Stir in Parmesan and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add a handful of spinach or peas at the end for a veggie boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
