Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a creamy pasta dish, especially when it’s quick and easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta combines hearty flavors with a satisfying texture, making it a perfect recipe to gather the family around the table. With a rich sauce enveloping tender pasta and savory beef, this dish is bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation means you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes.
- The creamy texture and robust flavors will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- It’s a one-skillet dish, making cleanup a breeze after a long day.
If you’re searching for a filling and flavorful dinner that pleases everyone, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Making Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta at Home
Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful dish! The process is straightforward, and you’ll love how the flavors come together seamlessly.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy ground beef pasta:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Directions
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Next, add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Afterward, add the minced garlic and stir for an additional 30 seconds to a minute until it becomes fragrant.
Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering steadily, add the rotini pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once your pasta is tender, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes beautifully creamy.
Finally, give your pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
Best Way to Store Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
To keep your Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta fresh and delicious, consider these storage tips:
- Refrigerate for 3-4 days at 40°F.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- When reheating, you may want to add a splash of beef broth or cream to restore its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
How to Serve Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
This dish is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some tasty presentation ideas:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta perfectly.
- Add Some Crunch: Serve crunchy breadsticks or garlic bread on the side for an added texture contrast that everyone will enjoy.
- Cheesy Topping: For an extra layer of indulgence, sprinkle more shredded cheddar or even a blend of your favorite cheeses on top and broil briefly until bubbly.
Tips to Make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- Use lean ground beef for a more wholesome dish, or substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes; penne or fusilli also work well and catch the sauce beautifully.
- If you’re a spice lover, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, here are some great variations to consider:
Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to toss in some frozen peas, spinach, or bell peppers to add nutrients and color. They’ll cook nicely with the pasta, enhancing the dish without altering the cooking process.
Cheese Variety: Instead of cheddar, try Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. This small swap can change the dish entirely!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the ground beef and sauce in advance and then simply cook the pasta when you are ready to serve. Just combine everything as per the directions, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready in minutes.
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Absolutely! While rotini works wonderfully to hold the sauce, you can easily substitute with penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even some hot sauce to the mixture.
Nutritional Info
When crafting a family-friendly meal like this, knowing the nutritional content can be valuable. Here’s a breakdown per serving (roughly):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Remember, these values will vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
What to Serve With
The beauty of Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is that it can stand alone, but it’s even better with some delectable sides. Here are some ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds a hearty, healthy contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: This bright green veggie not only adds color but also boosts the dish’s nutritional profile without overwhelming flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Remember that the pasta will continue to cook slightly even after you remove it from the heat. Aim for al dente so that it maintains a good texture.
- Not Stirring Enough: While simmering, residual heat can cause the pasta to stick to the skillet if you don’t stir occasionally. Keep an eye on it for a smooth finish.
- Skimping on Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the spices and seasoning. It’s essential to enhance the flavor of the beef and pasta. Adjust to your taste for the best results.
In conclusion, Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is not just an ordinary meal; it’s a delightful way to enjoy a hearty, comforting dish without much fuss. With simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, you’ll find it has all the makings of a family favorite. So roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and dive into this satisfying meal that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Beef
Description
A quick and comforting creamy pasta dish featuring savory ground beef and tender rotini, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well.
- Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, and add the rotini pasta. Cover and cook on medium-low for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is tender, stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot.
Notes
Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream for best texture.