Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Introduction
Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love? This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta recipe is the perfect solution. Ready in just a few simple steps, it combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the creamy texture of the sauce, all mixed in with your favorite pasta. It’s a comforting dish that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or leisurely weekends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground beef – 1 pound
Pasta – 8 ounces (any type you prefer)
Onion – 1 medium, diced
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Cream cheese – 4 ounces, softened
Beef broth – 1 cup
Milk – 1 cup
Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Incorporate Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Pour in the broth or water to cover the pasta and stir to combine. Bring to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
After the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped parsley or additional cheese.
Notes
Note 1: Pasta Type
You can use any short pasta for this recipe like penne, elbow macaroni, or shells.
Note 2: Adjust Creaminess
For a creamier dish, increase the amount of heavy cream or cheese based on personal preference.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick cooking technique that involves cooking food in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. For the creamy ground beef pasta, ground beef is sautéed until browned, which enhances its flavor and texture.
De-glazing
De-glazing is the process of adding liquid to a hot pan to loosen and dissolve food particles stuck to the bottom. This technique is essential for creating a rich sauce, as it incorporates all the flavorful bits left in the pan after cooking the beef.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique helps to meld the flavors of the sauce together, ensuring the ingredients are well combined and the pasta absorbs the creamy sauce.
Stirring
Stirring is crucial for ensuring that ingredients are evenly distributed and cooked uniformly. In this recipe, stirring helps to combine the pasta with the sauce, preventing clumping and promoting an even coating of the creamy mixture.
Combining
Combining involves mixing different components of a dish to create a harmonious blend. In the case of creamy ground beef pasta, it’s important to thoroughly combine the cooked pasta with the sauce for optimal flavor and consistency.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with other types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, to suit your taste preferences.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or use sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for added texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this pasta dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy ground beef pasta in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes, like penne or rotini, work best for this recipe as they can hold onto the creamy sauce well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can let it simmer for a longer period to reduce it, or you can add a cornstarch slurry made of cornstarch and water.
Conclusion
This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta recipe offers a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy evenings. The blend of savory beef, creamy sauce, and pasta creates a delightful dish that is sure to please the whole family. With its simplicity and versatility, you can easily make adjustments to suit your taste, making it a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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One-Pot Taco Pasta
Add taco seasoning to the beef and pasta, along with black beans and corn, for a flavorful twist reminiscent of your favorite tacos.
Italian Sausage and Spinach Pasta
Swap out ground beef for Italian sausage and add fresh spinach for a robust flavor packed with nutrients.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
For a seafood variation, sauté shrimp in garlic butter and toss with pasta for a light yet flavorful dish.
Beef Stroganoff
Use a creamy mushroom sauce with ground beef served over egg noodles for a hearty and comforting meal.
