Ingredients for Creamy Beef Pasta

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef: The star protein of this creamy beef pasta, providing savory depth. Choose 80/20 for optimal flavor and texture in your sauce.
• 1 lb pasta (such as penne or rigatoni): The foundation for soaking up all that delicious creamy sauce. Penne or rigatoni work best for holding the rich sauce.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for sautéing aromatics and browning the beef. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds liquid and savory umami, thinning the sauce to perfect consistency. Use low-sodium to control overall saltiness.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Transforms the tomato sauce into a luxurious, velvety texture. This is key for the “creamy” in Creamy Beef Pasta.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet and aromatic base for the sauce. Dice finely to ensure it melts into the creamy beef pasta sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Crucial for building robust flavor in the savory tomato cream sauce. Freshly minced garlic always makes a difference.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor, adding depth and richness to the sauce. Don’t skip this essential flavor booster.
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the sweet and tangy tomato base of our creamy sauce. San Marzano tomatoes offer superior flavor.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish): Melts into the sauce for extra savory depth and richness. Always grate fresh for superior taste and texture.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness of the sauce. Season gradually, tasting as you go.
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and peppery bite. Grind fresh for maximum aroma and impact.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A convenient blend of herbs that imparts classic Italian-American flavor. Use a quality blend for authentic taste.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a herbaceous finish. Chop just before serving for best results.

How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta

Brown Beef & Pasta:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up, until no pink remains. Drain excess fat. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside. This is the foundation for your Creamy Beef Pasta.

Sauté Aromatics:

To the same skillet with the beef (or a clean one if preferred), add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant and the paste caramelizes slightly.

Simmer Sauce:

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. This creates a rich base for your Creamy Beef Pasta.

Finish Cream:

Stir in the heavy cream and half cup of Parmesan cheese until smooth and fully incorporated into the sauce. Allow it to gently warm through for 2-3 minutes, but do not boil after adding the cream. This step makes the sauce truly luxurious for your Creamy Beef Pasta.

Combine Pasta:

Add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the creamy beef sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the rich sauce. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, creating a harmonious dish.

Garnish & Serve:

Garnish your delicious Creamy Beef Pasta with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm for the ultimate cozy meal. Enjoy these comforting flavors with your family and friends.

How to Store Creamy Beef Pasta

To store Creamy Beef Pasta, transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for 3-4 days. Improper storage can lead to dry pasta or spoilage – don’t leave it out too long, a mistake I made once! Always check for any off smells before enjoying.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the beef and tomato sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh and combine just before serving for optimal texture.

When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Reheat gently until warmed through.

What to Serve with Creamy Beef Pasta

Serve your Creamy Beef Pasta immediately, piping hot, for the best experience. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a beautiful presentation. This dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread to enjoy a complete and satisfying meal.

I love to serve this with a simple green salad and a light vinaigrette. The fresh greens pair perfectly, cutting through the richness for a delightful contrast. It’s my preferred way to enjoy this comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this creamy pasta?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef. It will alter the flavor slightly, making it a bit lighter, but it still works. Ensure you brown the turkey thoroughly and drain any fat. A little extra olive oil might be needed for moisture.

→ Can I freeze leftover Creamy Beef Pasta for a quick future meal?

Freezing isn’t ideal for creamy pasta as the sauce can separate and pasta might become mushy upon thawing. For best results, I recommend making the beef and tomato sauce ahead and freezing that separately. Cook pasta fresh when ready to serve.

→ How do I prevent the creamy sauce from curdling in my pasta?

To prevent curdling, never boil the sauce after adding the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep the heat low and gently warm it through for just a few minutes until smooth. This was a mistake I made often, ruining the texture.

→ Can I make this Creamy Beef Pasta recipe gluten-free for dietary needs?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. Ensure it’s cooked al dente according to package directions. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy and delicious swap.

→ How long can I store leftover creamy beef pasta in the refrigerator?

You can store leftover creamy beef pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For optimal texture and flavor, add a splash of beef broth or cream when reheating gently on the stovetop until warmed through.