Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick to whip up on busy weeknights. This hearty dish combines tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with seasoned ground beef for a filling meal that the whole family will love. The creamy texture perfectly balances the savory meat, while subtle spices and a touch of fresh herbs elevate the flavors.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a satisfying dinner in a hurry, this one-pot wonder will become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s packed with warmth and flavor, and best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients for Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

1 pound ground beef
2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., rotini, penne, or fusilli)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Season with paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour the beef broth into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir well to deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.

Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Storage Instructions

To store leftover Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently.

For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: ~600 kcal
Protein: ~30g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fat: ~35g
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~800mg

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Rotini, penne, fusilli, or even macaroni work well. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce nicely.

2. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar provides a rich flavor, but you can also try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for variety.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions. Add them when cooking the beef for extra flavor and nutrients.

5. Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

To reduce calories, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and lean ground beef or ground turkey.

6. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the pasta and beef mixture separately, then combine and reheat with the sauce before serving.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add extra beef broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.