why make this recipe
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a fantastic meal choice for busy weeknights. It combines flavorful ground beef with tender rotini pasta, all cooked in one skillet. This dish is not only easy to make but also comforting and satisfying. The creamy sauce, made from heavy cream and cheddar cheese, brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
how to make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Directions
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked through, usually around 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat.
Next, add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Afterward, add the minced garlic and stir for an additional 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the rotini pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once your pasta is tender, pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Finally, give the pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
how to serve Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet. You can top it with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added color and freshness. It goes well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened.
tips to make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- For a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the spices.
variation
You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. This recipe can also be made vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or fusilli will work well in this recipe.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How do I make it spicier?
You can add more black pepper or include jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to increase the heat level.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for less fat.
- 8 oz rotini pasta Can substitute with other short pasta.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth Use low sodium if preferred.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Can use other types of cheese.
Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper Can add more for spice.
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional) For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally and drain excess fat.
Sautéing Vegetables
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
Combining Ingredients
- Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper; stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add rotini pasta, cover, and let simmer on medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finishing the Dish
- Once pasta is tender, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.