Creamy Beef Pasta: Ultimate Easy Comfort Food
This Creamy Beef Pasta recipe is a quick and easy dinner solution for busy weeknights. Featuring savory browned beef and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a luscious, creamy sauce, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's simple to customize with your favorite pasta, vegetables, and seasonings.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or your favorite shape
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet with the beef mixture.
- Pour in the milk and stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Simmer gently for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra vegetables. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water if needed.