Name: Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups beef broth; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

This hearty stovetop creamy ground beef pasta combines tender pasta, a rich, velvety sauce, and flavorful ground beef—all in one pot. It’s a quick, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a cozy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this dish is to prepare, with minimal cleanup since it all comes together in a single pot. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and a creamy, cheesy sauce is irresistible. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted with your favorite pasta shapes or extra veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups beef broth

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet or saucepan, I heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. I add the ground beef and cook it until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). If there’s excess fat, I drain it off.

Add Aromatics and Seasonings:

Next, I add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Then, I stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to build a flavorful base.

Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes:

I pour in the beef broth and stir in the diced tomatoes, bringing everything to a simmer. I let it cook for 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Add the Pasta:

I stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. I reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the liquid gets low, I add a little extra broth or water to prevent sticking.

Make It Creamy:

Once the pasta is tender, I stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. I let the sauce simmer for 2-3 more minutes, thickening into a rich, creamy coating for the pasta.

Serve:

I garnish the pasta with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, then serve it warm. It’s always a hit!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.

For a spicier kick, stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out, then heat it gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

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FAQs

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking while cooking?

I make sure to stir the pasta occasionally and add a bit more liquid if it looks dry. Keeping it submerged in the sauce helps too.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, I can freeze it for up to 2 months in an airtight container. However, the creamy sauce may slightly change texture upon reheating.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

I prefer sturdy shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni since they hold up well in the creamy sauce.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Shredded mozzarella, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives to Parmesan.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

I like using lean ground beef or turkey, whole wheat pasta, and light cream for a healthier twist. Adding vegetables also boosts its nutritional value.

Conclusion

This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is the ultimate comfort food—quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or a casual family meal, this one-pot wonder is sure to satisfy everyone around the table.

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