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Creamy ground beef pasta in skillet with melted parmesan cheese and Italian herbs

Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Rich, creamy pasta with savory ground beef and Parmesan cheese, ready in 35 minutes for an easy weeknight comfort meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 560
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef 90% lean recommended
  • 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for lighter version
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for pasta
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water (about 1 tablespoon salt) to a boil for your pasta. While the water heats, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until completely browned with no pink remaining.
  3. Once pasta water is boiling, add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain in a colander and set aside.
  4. Pour vegetable broth into the skillet with cooked beef and stir. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Reduce heat to low. Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually, mixing constantly until completely melted and smooth.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently until evenly coated with sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat on stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creamy consistency. Can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.