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Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

A one-pan creamy pasta dinner with seasoned ground beef and tender noodles coated in rich cheese sauce. Ready in 25 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce Base
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or elbows
Creamy Finish
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break into small crumbles. Cook for 6 minutes until completely browned.
  2. Drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving just enough to keep meat moist.
  3. Add diced onion to the beef and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper, then pour in tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir well.
  6. Add uncooked pasta directly to the skillet and mix everything together thoroughly.
  7. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  8. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  10. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Stir pasta every 3-4 minutes to prevent sticking
  • Remove from heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess
  • Use freshly grated cheese for best results
  • Add milk or broth when reheating leftovers
  • Choose short pasta shapes that hold sauce