Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This creamy ground beef pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. With tender rigatoni tossed in a rich tomato and cream sauce, it’s easy to make yet feels special enough for guests. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce (or tomato-based pasta sauce)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream (or half and half)
• 12 ounces rigatoni (rotini, penne, or other medium pasta)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
2. Step 2: Stir in the dried basil, oregano, and garlic powder. Cook for 1 minute to release the aromas.
3. Step 3: Add the marinara sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it slightly thickens.
4. Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Step 5: Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta without rinsing.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes to thicken.
7. Step 7: Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half and half for the heavy cream to reduce fat without sacrificing too much creaminess.
• Try adding a handful of chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor.
• Use turkey or chicken ground meat as a leaner alternative to beef.
• Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder for a more vibrant taste; sauté minced garlic with the onions.
• If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes when cooking the herbs.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish generally does not freeze well because of the cream, which can separate when thawed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?

Yes, any medium pasta like rotini, penne, or shells works well because they hold the sauce nicely. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

What can I substitute if I don’t have beef broth?

You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a bit of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to add depth if beef broth is not available.