If you’re craving something that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl, look no further than this Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. This dish brings together tender ground beef, tender pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that all come together in one skillet, making cooking and cleanup a breeze while delivering big on flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry crowd, the rich creaminess paired with the robust seasoned beef and perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible. Get ready to fall in love with this quick and satisfying meal that feels like it took hours to make but comes together in no time.

Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet absolutely essential. Each adds its own layer to the texture, aroma, and taste, creating an irresistible harmony that makes Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta a standout dinner.

Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty, meaty backbone of the dish, providing rich flavor and satisfying protein.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté your aromatics and keeps everything moist and flavorful.
Small onion, chopped (1): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth once softened.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses a wonderful warmth and aroma throughout the dish.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings a classic Mediterranean herbaceous note that complements beef perfectly.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a fresh, slightly sweet herbal flavor to balance the richness.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon): A tiny kick of heat that livens up every bite.
Beef broth (1 cup): Boosts the beefy flavor while adding moisture for the pasta to cook in.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Provide a savory, tangy base that brightens the creamy sauce.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Delivers the luscious creaminess that sets this pasta apart.
Penne pasta (8 ounces): The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and bits of beef with every forkful.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): A sharp, salty finish that melts into the sauce for a luscious texture.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to pull all the flavors together.

How to Make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Brown Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent and tender, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant, which takes about a minute. Next, add your ground beef, breaking it up as you go. Let it cook until there’s no trace of pink left, usually around 5-7 minutes. This step builds the rich savory foundation for the whole dish.

Step 2: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let those herbs mingle with the beef for another minute to awaken their flavors. Pour in the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for around 5 minutes to let the flavors marry beautifully before moving on to the pasta.

Step 3: Cook Pasta in the Sauce

Add the dry penne pasta directly to the simmering sauce. Give it a good stir to make sure the pasta is evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and let this cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the pasta absorbs the sauce, becoming tender while thickening the mixture into a rich base.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the heavy cream to introduce that silky texture we all love. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and turns creamy. Finally, toss in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely, enriching the sauce with a beautifully sharp, cheesy finish. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste at the very end!

How to Serve Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your dish to the next level. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh pop of color and brightness. A bit of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can add just the right amount of richness and visual appeal. If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of extra red pepper flakes can give the dish a tantalizing kick right at the table.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta shines as a main course, but pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides balances the richness perfectly. Consider a crunchy green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli. For a cozy touch, garlic bread or warm crusty rolls provide the ideal vessel for sopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta in individual, wide-rimmed bowls and top with a soft poached egg for added decadence. Alternatively, make it a baked casserole by transferring the cooked pasta into a baking dish, sprinkling with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then broiling until golden and bubbly on top. Presentation can be casual or fancy—either way, this comforting meal always delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal an even more satisfying experience. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover pasta for up to 2 months, but because of the cream, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and cover tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or additional broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and warm until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Adding a touch more cream or cheese while reheating can refresh the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal because it holds onto the sauce well, you can substitute with rigatoni, rotini, or even shells. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly based on the pasta shape you choose.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter or low-fat?

You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be quite as rich and creamy. Using lean ground beef or ground turkey is another way to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the sauté stage or in the simmering step. They add extra texture, color, and nutrients to your Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a gentle kick from the red pepper flakes, but it’s generally mild and can be adjusted to your taste. Increase or omit the red pepper flakes depending on how much heat you like.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The creamy sauce and pasta still deliver great comfort and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a delicious, comforting meal that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor, this Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is here to impress. It’s warm, hearty, and creamy in all the right ways—perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try, and watch it quickly become a favorite you turn to again and again for a satisfying dinner that feels homemade and special.

Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 12 reviews

Author: Lana
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

A rich and creamy stovetop ground beef pasta that combines tender penne with a savory tomato and beef broth sauce, infused with herbs and finished with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a comforting and hearty meal.

Instructions

Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat to warm up.
Sauté onions: Add olive oil to the skillet, then sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook ground beef: Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned and no pink remains.
Season beef: Mix in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, cooking another minute to blend flavors.
Add liquids: Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes with juices, stirring to combine and bring to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes.
Cook pasta: Add penne pasta to the skillet, distribute evenly, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and most liquid absorbed.
Make sauce creamy: Stir in heavy cream and cook 2-3 more minutes until sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Season final dish: Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
Add cheese and serve: Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated, then serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use fresh herbs if available for a brighter flavor.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase red pepper flakes.
Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a leaner option.
To reduce calories, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk alternative, but the sauce will be less rich.
If beef broth is unavailable, substitute with vegetable or chicken broth.
Stir occasionally while pasta cooks to prevent sticking.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American