Creamy Beef Pasta
A delightful dish combining hearty ingredients in a smooth, rich sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 8 oz penne pasta Can substitute with rigatoni or fusilli.
- 1 lb lean ground beef Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream Adjust for thickness preferences.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Feel free to add red pepper flakes for heat.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Substitute with mozzarella or cheddar if desired.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
Combining Ingredients
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Best served warm. Pairs well with garlic bread or a simple side salad. To store, cool to room temperature before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.