Creamy Beef Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Beef Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. It combines the heartiness of ground beef with the smooth texture of cream and cheese, creating a comforting dish that everyone loves. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing

Directions

1. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Beef Pasta

Serve Creamy Beef Pasta hot on individual plates. You can sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Beef Pasta

Store leftover Creamy Beef Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the pasta from drying out.

Tips to Make Creamy Beef Pasta

• Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust the amount of cream and cheese according to your taste preference for a creamier or lighter sauce.

Variation

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use mushrooms or lentils as a hearty substitute.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or rotini.

2. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You can use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free variation.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Beef Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about 2 months in the freezer.

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