If you are craving a dish that brings together hearty comfort and rich, indulgent flavors, this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is going to become your new weeknight hero. Picture tender, perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luxuriously creamy tomato and beef sauce that’s bursting with Italian-inspired herbs and spices. The marriage of savory ground beef and velvety cream creates a luscious texture that makes every bite utterly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply want a delightful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this recipe is simple enough to whip up quickly but impressive enough to enjoy any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From aromatic herbs to rich cream, these accessible pantry staples come together beautifully to create a balanced and comforting dish.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The star protein that adds hearty richness and satisfying texture.
- 1 small yellow onion (finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a hint of fragrant, slightly sweet herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a classic Mediterranean flavor that complements the tomato sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides savory warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the meaty base and adds moisture for a tender sauce.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: The tomato backbone that’s tangy, sweet, and full of character.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and enriches the sauce’s color.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream: Or half and half, which infuses the sauce with creamy luxury.
- 12 ounces rigatoni: Choose rigatoni, rotini, or penne as they hold the sauce beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the lean ground beef along with the finely diced onion. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. This step is crucial to develop the rich, savory foundation of your sauce. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish balanced and not greasy.
Step 2: Season and Build Flavor
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, and garlic powder, stirring everything for about a minute. This brief cooking time releases those wonderful herbal aromas and makes sure every bite is flavorful. The seasoning at this stage turns the sautéed beef and onion into a fragrant, flavor-packed base for the sauce.
Step 3: Add Sauces and Simmer
Pour in the marinara sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste, then sprinkle in the salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. This step thickens the sauce slightly while marrying all the ingredients beautifully. After the initial simmer, stir in the heavy whipping cream and continue simmering for another 5 minutes. This addition turns the sauce into a luscious, velvety marvel while mellowing the acidity of the tomatoes.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your choice of rigatoni, rotini, or penne until al dente according to the package directions. Save half a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon that helps bind the sauce to the pasta perfectly later on. Avoid rinsing the pasta so it can soak up all that creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta right into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy ground beef sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you reach the ideal consistency. Let it all simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling luxuriously to every bite of rigatoni.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. This final step ensures your Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe has just the right balance, inviting you to savor every mouthful of this comforting creation.
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your pasta presentation, consider finishing it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or flat-leaf parsley. A grating of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty punch that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. For a touch of crunch, toasted pine nuts or crispy fried onions are delightful additions to contrast the softness of the pasta.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with bright, crisp side dishes to balance its richness. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette brings refreshing acidity. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls work perfectly to scoop up any extra sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add fresh, vibrant notes that complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this pasta in individual bowls topped with a dollop of ricotta or a swirl of pesto for a gourmet twist. For a special occasion, bake the creamy ground beef pasta topped with mozzarella and Parmesan until bubbly and golden for a luscious pasta bake. You can also stuff bell peppers with the pasta mixture and bake them for a fun, handheld version your guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover creamy ground beef pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal. Make sure to keep the pasta separate from any cold garnishes to maintain texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly after freezing but will still be incredibly tasty.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce seems thick or dry, add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to restore its creamy consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between sessions to maintain that smooth, luscious sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef provides a rich, hearty flavor, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might need a touch of extra seasoning or fat to keep the sauce creamy and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the rigatoni or pasta of choice with a gluten-free variety. Many gluten-free pastas hold sauce well, but the cooking time and texture might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while boiling.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use milk or half and half as a lighter option, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a similar texture, consider adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce if you go the milk route.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is mild and comforting without any heat. However, if you prefer a little kick, you can add crushed red pepper flakes during the seasoning step or top your dish with a sprinkle of chili flakes to suit your taste.
What pasta shapes work best?
Pasta shapes like rigatoni, rotini, or penne are ideal because their ridges and tubes hold the creamy sauce well. But feel free to experiment with your favorites or what you have on hand—the key is to choose a pasta that captures the sauce so none of that creamy goodness is lost.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe that makes it perfect for comforting dinners and casual get-togethers alike. Its beautiful balance of luscious cream, savory beef, and aromatic herbs turns simple ingredients into pure magic on your plate. I encourage you to give it a try, share it with loved ones, and savor every decadent forkful. Once you taste it, I’m sure it will become a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 21 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A rich and comforting Creamy Ground Beef Pasta recipe combining tender rigatoni with a savory tomato and cream sauce infused with Italian herbs and spices, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups marinara sauce (or tomato-based pasta sauce)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream (or half and half)
Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni (rotini, penne, or other medium pasta)
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and finely diced yellow onion until the beef is browned and no pink remains, breaking the meat up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
- Add herbs and spices: Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, and garlic powder into the beef mixture. Cook for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to bloom.
- Make the sauce: Add the marinara sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, and ½ teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and let it simmer an additional 5 minutes to achieve a creamy texture.
- Cook pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the rigatoni pasta in salted boiling water following package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining without rinsing.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the cream sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta completely. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce. Simmer together for 2 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and adhere to the pasta.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning by adding additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Serve hot for a satisfying creamy pasta dish.
Notes
- You can substitute half and half for heavy cream for a lighter creamy sauce.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat and draining excess fat helps prevent greasiness.
- Do not rinse pasta after draining to preserve the starch that helps thicken the sauce.
- Feel free to add freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese as a garnish.
