Creamy Beef Pasta

Name: Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing

By: GORDON ALEX | Published onFebruary 7, 2026

Creamy beef pasta dish garnished with herbs and served in a bowl

Healthy Recipes

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Making a delicious, satisfying meal at home doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. One of my go-to recipes is creamy beef pasta, a rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for families and even entertaining friends. This delightful pasta features tender penne pasta coated in a velvety sauce of ground beef, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or comfort food on a rainy day, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why you’ll love this dish

Creamy beef pasta is not just another meal; it’s a favorite for many reasons. First and foremost, it comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy evenings. The combination of lean ground beef and creamy sauce satisfies even the heartiest of appetites, while the Italian seasonings bring a touch of warmth and familiarity. The best part? Children absolutely love it!

"Creamy beef pasta has quickly become a family favorite! It’s rich, satisfying, and super easy to whip up after a long day. My kids even ask for seconds!" — Jamie, a happy home cook.

The cooking process explained

This creamy beef pasta is straightforward to make. You’ll first cook the penne until it’s al dente, ensuring a perfect bite. Meanwhile, you’ll sauté aromatic onions and garlic, allowing their flavors to enhance the dish. The ground beef is added next, providing protein and richness. After stirring in heavy cream and Parmesan, you’ll create the luscious sauce we adore. Finally, combine the cooked pasta, and you’ve got dinner ready to impress!

What you’ll need

To get started, gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dish:

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tsp olive oil for sautéing

Feel free to substitute with whole wheat pasta or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a healthier twist!

Step-by-step instructions

Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they’re fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break the meat apart as it cooks, and continue until it’s browned, which should take about 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.
Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s well-coated with the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if you’d like.

Best ways to enjoy it

Creamy beef pasta can be served in a variety of delightful ways. One of my favorite options is to garnish each plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an additional grating of Parmesan — it adds a lovely touch! For side dishes, consider serving a crisp green salad or garlic bread. If you’re looking for a drink pairing, a light red wine or refreshing iced tea would complement the flavors beautifully.

Storage and reheating tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! Creamy beef pasta can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture. If you want to store it for a more extended period, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Helpful cooking tips

For an even creamier sauce, try letting the sauce simmer a little longer before adding the pasta. This enhances the flavors and thickness. You could also experiment with different types of pasta — fusilli or rigatoni work wonderfully and hold sauce beautifully. Additionally, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your dish a pleasing kick if you like a bit of heat.

Creative twists

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this creamy beef pasta! You could easily switch up the protein by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian option, try substituting the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Adding fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can also elevate the dish and give it a fresh twist.

Common questions

How long does it take to make creamy beef pasta?
It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish to prepare this delicious dish.
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes, such as rigatoni or farfalle.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use whole wheat pasta or swap half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk. Adding vegetables like spinach is also a great way to boost nutrition.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can freeze the pasta for up to three months.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Try substituting the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.
What type of ground beef is best to use?
Lean ground beef (at least 90% lean) is recommended to keep the dish from becoming overly greasy.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini can be added for flavor and texture.
What side dishes pair well with creamy beef pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread works wonderfully alongside this rich pasta dish, balancing the flavors nicely.

Now that you’re equipped with all the information for making creamy beef pasta, it’s time to whip up this delightful dish and savor each creamy bite!