If you’re searching for an easy but unforgettable weeknight dinner, you’ll fall head over heels for Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. This one-pot comfort classic combines tender pasta, rich ground beef, and a velvety cream sauce, all brightened by tomatoes and gooey melted cheese. It delivers the familiar warmth of a home-cooked meal with a flavor-packed punch, and comes together in just over half an hour. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving second helpings yourself, this dish guarantees both an empty skillet and plenty of happy smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient is a building block, contributing its own flavor, texture, and even color. With a handful of well-chosen staples, you’ll have Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta on the table in no time—all you need is a bit of chopping, stirring, and a good dash of enthusiasm.
- Olive oil: Gives a silky base to sauté your beef and aromatics, boosting flavor right from the start.
- Ground beef: Adds richness and heartiness; opt for 85% lean for the best flavor-to-juiciness ratio.
- Onion (diced): Sweetens as it cooks, creating depth and subtle background flavor.
- Garlic (minced): Adds a savory aroma that brings the entire skillet to life.
- Italian seasoning: Lends fragrant herbs, tying together the flavors in classic, crowd-pleasing fashion.
- Smoked paprika: Introduces a gentle, smoky warmth that makes every bite memorable.
- Salt: Brightens and balances the whole dish—don’t be shy but taste as you go.
- Black pepper: For just the right amount of background spice and depth.
- Canned diced tomatoes: Brings bright acidity and a pretty pop of red to each spoonful.
- Beef broth: The secret to a savory sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.
- Penne or rotini pasta: Sturdy shapes catch the creamy sauce in every nook and cranny.
- Heavy cream: Luxurious and essential for that signature creamy texture and taste.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey deliciousness, making every bite irresistible.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty sharpness that finishes the sauce just right.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): A final burst of freshness that brightens everything up at the end.
How to Make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a roomy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. If there’s excess fat in the pan, go ahead and drain it off—this keeps your Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta light but still full of hearty flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Toss in your diced onion and minced garlic, stirring together for two to three minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions are soft and translucent and your kitchen smells amazing! This is where the base of flavor really starts coming together.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so every bit of beef and onion gets a coating of that herby, smoky magic. This step builds the deep, layered flavors that will shine in every bite of your Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (juice and all!) followed by the beef broth. Give it a good mix, then stir in your chosen pasta shape. The liquid will cook the pasta right in the same pan, letting it soak up all those savory flavors as it simmers.
Step 5: Simmer and Soften
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring now and then so nothing sticks to the bottom. The pasta should end up tender, and the sauce will thicken to a luscious consistency.
Step 6: Make It Creamy
Now for the magic: stir in the heavy cream, then sprinkle in both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir slowly until everything melts together, forming a dreamy, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and beef.
Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
Take your skillet off the heat and shower the top with fresh chopped parsley. Serve it piping hot—trust me, nobody will want to wait once they smell what’s cooking!
How to Serve Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Garnishes
Scatter an extra handful of freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella over each bowl for that ooey-gooey, melty finish. A sprinkle of parsley or fresh basil offers a pop of color and freshness, and for spice lovers, a dusting of red pepper flakes can make the whole meal come alive.
Side Dishes
Crusty garlic bread is a classic companion—it soaks up any extra sauce and rounds out the meal beautifully. For something vibrant and refreshing, pair your Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or try simple roasted veggies for added color and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn dinnertime into an event by serving this pasta in individual mini-skillets or bake-safe bowls. For a communal, rustic flair, plop the whole skillet down in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves family-style. To impress guests, top each portion with a drizzle of good olive oil and a twirl of extra Parmesan for that restaurant-quality finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop them into the fridge. Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making it a wonderful make-ahead lunch or second dinner.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, let the pasta cool completely before freezing in individual portions. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag, and try to eat within 2 months for the best flavor and texture. Just know the pasta may soften a bit after thawing, but it will still taste delicious.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of broth or a spoonful of cream to bring back the creamy texture. Warm it up gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often, or use the microwave for quick convenience—just cover the dish so it stays steamy and moist.
FAQs
Can I swap the ground beef for another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe is super versatile—try ground turkey or Italian sausage for a tasty twist, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Which pasta shapes work best in Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta?
Penne and rotini are both perfect because their nooks catch all the sauce, but fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells will also work wonderfully. Feel free to use your favorite hearty pasta.
How can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Easily! Stir in baby spinach, sliced mushrooms, or chopped zucchini during the last 5 minutes of simmering—the veggies will soften right into the dish and boost nutrition without extra work.
Is this recipe spicy?
While the smoked paprika adds warmth, it’s not truly spicy. If you want more heat, toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper or serve with hot sauce on the side so everyone can customize their own bowl.
Can I make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta gluten-free?
Yes! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that all ingredients (like broth and seasonings) are certified gluten-free. The creamy sauce and flavors will remain just as crave-worthy.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait for a special occasion to enjoy a big, comforting bowl of Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. It’s quick enough for any weeknight but satisfying enough to impress a crowd—give it a try, and let each creamy, cheesy bite remind you why homemade classics never go out of style!
Print
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a satisfying one-pot meal that combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a comforting and easy dish perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheese:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Cook Aromatics: Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
- Season and Simmer: Add seasonings, tomatoes, broth, and pasta. Simmer until pasta is tender.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For added vegetables, consider stirring in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini towards the end of cooking.
- Ground turkey or sausage can be substituted for the beef.
- Leftovers can be reheated with a splash of broth or cream for added moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
