When you’re pressed for time but still want to serve a delicious, comforting meal, this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is the perfect solution. Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. The combination of ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and your favorite pasta makes this dish a hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s versatile—use whatever pasta shape you have on hand!
Try this delicious pasta recipe with ground beef and let me know in the comments, “How do you like it?” Peace and love! Have a delicious day, my friends!
Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- 220 g (8 ounces) conchiglie, or any other shell-shaped pasta: The pasta base, which can be substituted with any pasta shape you have on hand.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and browning the beef.
- Pinch of salt: For seasoning the pasta water and enhancing the flavors.
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 450 g (1 pound) extra lean ground beef: The protein component of the dish, providing a rich, savory flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor.
- 450 g (2 cups) tomato sauce: The base of the sauce, providing a tangy, rich flavor.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds richness.
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a classic Italian flavor to the dish.
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy/whipping cream: Makes the sauce rich, creamy, and luxurious.
- Basil (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal note.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the sauce to perfection.
- Parmigiano-Reggiano (optional): Adds a nutty, savory flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
- Dijon mustard (optional but recommended): Adds complexity and layers of flavor to the sauce.
Instructions: How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 220 g (8 ounces) of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Set Aside:
- Set the drained pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion:
- Add the finely chopped 1/2 medium onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Add the 450 g (1 pound) of extra lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook, breaking the beef up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Garlic:
- Stir in the minced 2 cloves of garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
- Add Tomato Sauce and Paste:
- Pour in the 450 g (2 cups) of tomato sauce and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir to combine with the beef and onions.
- Add Dijon Mustard and Seasoning:
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth to the sauce.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Cream:
- Slowly pour in the 120 ml (1/2 cup) of heavy/whipping cream, stirring continuously. The cream will transform the tomato sauce into a rich, velvety sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy beef sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Serve Hot:
- Divide the creamy ground beef pasta among plates.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and chopped basil if desired. The basil adds a fresh, herbal note, while the cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy ground beef pasta is the ultimate comfort food—quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The combination of rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and creamy sauce makes for a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to work with any pasta shape you have on hand, making it a great go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s easy to prepare, ready in just about 30 minutes, and packed with flavors that will please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to let me know in the comments, “How do you like it?” Peace and love! Have a delicious day, my friends!
