Creamy Beef Pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your weeknight dinner table. It’s packed with flavors and is super easy to whip up after a long day. This creamy, rich pasta is perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying, yet quick to prepare.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This creamy beef pasta dish is a real winner for families. It combines delicious flavors with simple ingredients you likely already have at home. Plus, it’s quick to cook, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Everyone will enjoy this hearty meal, making it perfect for dinner with the family.
How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta
Making this dish is straightforward and stress-free. You’ll be cooking pasta while browning the beef and simmering the sauce at the same time. This method keeps the whole process simple and lets you enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
What You Need
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can tomatoes with juices (14.5 oz)
- 1 handful fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
- 🥫 Canned Goods:
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 8 oz penne pasta (or other short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli)
- 🧂 Pantry Items and Spices:
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step
Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Simmer the Sauce
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the canned tomatoes and beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the Creamy Element
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and grated parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the beef sauce. Toss well to combine everything so each piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce.
Garnish & Serve
- Top with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
How to Serve Creamy Beef Pasta
This dish is excellent on its own, but you can enhance the meal with some tasty sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad or some warm garlic bread. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
How to Store Creamy Beef Pasta
For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and it can last up to 3 months. Reheat the pasta gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Recipe Tips
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- If you’re short on time, prep your ingredients before cooking.
- Add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be firm to the bite.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For a vegetarian option, use plant-based beef crumbles.
- Mix in some parmesan with the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Add a splash of heavy cream for an even creamier texture.
- Consider using whole-wheat pasta for a more nutritious choice.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef sauce in advance and just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve. This saves you time during busy weeknights and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Is it possible to freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Just make sure the pasta is fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It freezes well and can be enjoyed later.
How should I reheat the creamy beef pasta?
The best way to reheat is to warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
A simple salad with fresh greens and vinaigrette goes perfectly. Garlic bread or breadsticks also complement this meal wonderfully.
What should I avoid when making this pasta?
Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente. Also, take care not to rush the simmering step, as this helps deepen the flavors of the sauce.
Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta or other short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli
For the Sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef use lean for a healthier option
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can tomatoes with juices 14.5 oz can
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- 1 handful fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Simmer the Sauce
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the canned tomatoes and beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the Creamy Element
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and grated parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the beef sauce. Toss well to combine everything so each piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce.
Garnish & Serve
- Top with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
