Introduction
There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm, creamy pasta dish. Perfect for a casual family dinner or an intimate meal for two, this Irresistible Creamy Beef Pasta promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. With juicy ground beef, rich cream, and a blend of aromatic spices, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that can be on your table in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, giving it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring it into the onions, and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
- Next, add the ground beef, using a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Sauté until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to mix well to get that nice sear.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine and enhance the flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (don’t forget to include those juicy tomatoes and their liquid!) along with the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until everything is well incorporated and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy beef sauce until every strand is beautifully coated.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and mixed throughout for that extra layer of richness.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, for a fun twist.
- If you want to add some veggies, throw in some spinach or bell peppers when cooking the onions!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just reheat gently on the stove.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of basic cooking techniques like sautéing and simmering. Sautéing the onions and garlic not only builds a flavor foundation, but also adds depth to the dish. Simmering the beef and tomato mixture allows for the ingredients to develop and meld together, creating a rich sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
FAQ
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey will work wonderfully, offering a lighter alternative while still providing great flavor.
- Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free? Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- What can I serve with this dish? A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy pasta to round out the meal.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Creamy Beef Pasta not only simplifies dinner prep but also delivers comfort in every single bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth to your table and smiles to faces—perfect for cozy nights spent with loved ones. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a plate of creamy goodness that you’ll want to make again and again!