Name: Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 1 pound lean ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream; Salt & pepper to taste; Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 9 reviews

If you’re craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect blend of tender pasta, flavorful ground beef simmered in a rich, tomato-cream sauce, and just the right touch of herbs that make every bite utterly comforting. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is not only super delicious but also so simple to prepare, making it a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Once you try it, it’ll likely become one of your most beloved pasta meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black cast iron pan with red handles sits on a white marbled surface. In the left image, the pan holds a base layer of light-colored chopped onions spread evenly. On top of the onions is a large mound of raw pink ground meat with a small pile of pale yellow minced garlic placed in the center. In the right image, the ground meat is browned and crumbly, mixed with softened onions showing a light translucent texture underneath. On top of this cooked mixture is a layer of crushed red tomatoes with visible seeds and some dried herbs sprinkled on top, creating a rough, textured red layer with greenish-brown speckles. The pan and its colorful ingredients contrast with the smooth white marbled surface beneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color – from the savory ground beef to the creamy finish that makes it irresistibly smooth.

8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite shape; it serves as the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness while sautéing the onions.
1/2 medium onion (chopped): Provides a gentle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Boosts the savory aroma and layers of taste.
1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Brings vibrant acidity and juiciness to the sauce.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, adding lush intensity.
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Infuses a subtle tang that brightens the creamy sauce.
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs giving that classic pasta dish vibe.
3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: Transforms the sauce into a luscious, velvety dream.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential to balance and enhance every flavor.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste): Adds a savory, nutty finish that’s simply irresistible.

How to Make Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. The salt seasons the pasta internally as it cooks. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente—this means tender but still with a slight bite. Drain and set aside; it will finish cooking slightly when you toss it with the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Olive Oil

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onions and let them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and become translucent. This step builds a sweet, fragrant base for the sauce that feels so homey.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef with Garlic

Add the ground beef and minced garlic to the skillet with the onions. Break the meat apart with your spoon and cook until browned through, about 8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully spoon it out to keep the sauce rich but not greasy. The browned beef infuses the dish with robust flavor you just can’t skip.

Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, and Seasonings

Next, stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook down for 4 to 5 minutes. This reduces the sauce slightly, concentrating the flavors and marrying the ingredients beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened. This is where the sauce really transforms into that luscious, creamy texture that makes this Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe so irresistible. Give it a taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed; seasoning makes all the difference!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, toss the drained pasta directly into your skillet or pot with the sauce, mixing everything well so every noodle is coated in that creamy, meaty goodness. Serve the pasta immediately, sprinkling freshly grated parmesan cheese on top if you like for an extra layer of savory indulgence.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

A close-up view of a bowl filled with creamy pasta that has three clear layers: a base of spiral pasta in pale yellow, mixed evenly with a light brown ground meat sauce containing soft red tomato pieces, all covered by a thin layer of grated white cheese and small green herb bits sprinkled across the top. A white fork with a gold head is placed on the left side inside the white bowl, resting on the pasta. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil can brighten this dish and add a pop of fresh green color. Of course, a generous shower of parmesan cheese enhances the savory notes and adds a pleasant salty finish.

Side Dishes

Since this pasta is richly satisfying on its own, lighter sides work best. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli balances the creaminess nicely and adds some freshness to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins baked briefly with extra cheese melted on top. Or plate with a garlic breadstick on the side for dipping into every last bit of the luscious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce continues to soak into the pasta, making it even more flavorful the next day!

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and reheating results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. You might want to add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and maintain that dreamy creaminess as you warm it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with many pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to keep the pasta perfectly al dente.

Is it possible to make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be good alternatives for a leaner version. Keep in mind these meats have a milder flavor, so you might want to adjust seasonings slightly to maintain robust taste.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

You can try using half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. To keep some of the silkiness, you might add a small amount of cream cheese or a roux to thicken it.

How can I add more veggies to this dish?

Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when you add the onions or tomatoes. This adds nutrition, texture, and vibrant color without complicating the recipe.

What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking after cooking?

Be sure to salt your boiling water well and cook pasta just until al dente. Immediately drain and toss with a little olive oil or butter if not mixing into the sauce right away to keep noodles separated.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is truly a winner for anyone seeking flavorful comfort food that’s quick and fuss-free. The combination of simple ingredients coming together in a creamy, satisfying sauce is pure joy on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how wonderfully easy and delicious weeknight dinners can be!