Introduction
Do you want a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will love? Then this Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is just what you need! It’s a one-pot meal made with simple ingredients and packed with flavor. You don’t need to be a chef to make it — just follow a few easy steps, and dinner will be ready in no time.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want something warm and comforting. The creamy sauce, mixed with ground beef and pasta, makes every bite delicious. Plus, everything cooks on the stovetop — no oven needed! Let’s get started.
Ingredients – Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy ground beef pasta:
For the pasta:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or elbow macaroni works great)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the creamy sauce:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
No #03: Step by Step Process – Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Let’s break it down into simple steps:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion gets soft and smells good.
- Now add the ground beef. Cook it until it turns brown. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Drain any extra fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
Once the beef is browned, pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir well. Add the uncooked pasta, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together.
Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta Is Cooked
- Let the mixture come to a light boil. Then lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid.
- Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is soft. Stir it a couple of times while it cooks to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
When the pasta is cooked, remove the lid. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese to the pan. Stir slowly until everything melts and the sauce turns creamy. You can also add a bit more milk if the sauce feels too thick.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Sprinkle Italian seasoning if you like a little extra flavor. Stir one last time and garnish with fresh parsley.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Scoop it onto plates or into bowls and serve it warm. It’s delicious just as it is, but you can also serve it with garlic bread or a side salad.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Total Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Calcium | 150mg |
| Iron | 3mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! You can use penne, rotini, elbow macaroni, shells, or even spaghetti. Just remember that cooking time might change slightly depending on the shape.
Q2: What if I don’t have cream cheese?
No problem! You can use sour cream or a little heavy cream instead. It may taste a bit different but will still be creamy and tasty.
Q3: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. Just make sure to season it well since they are lighter meats.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Let the pasta cool down, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3–4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Q5: Can I freeze this dish?
You can, but the texture of the creamy sauce may change a little after freezing. If you do freeze it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is one of those recipes that becomes a favorite in no time. It’s rich, hearty, and made with everyday ingredients. Plus, you only need one pot, which means less mess to clean up afterward — win-win!
It’s a great choice for busy evenings, picky eaters, or even cozy weekend dinners. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish is sure to leave everyone full and happy.
So the next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, remember this simple and delicious recipe. Try it once, and it might just become a regular in your meal rotation! Happy cooking!
