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Creamy beef pasta dish garnished for a quick 30-minute dinner

Creamy Beef Pasta

Creamy Beef Pasta is a rich, savory comfort food that combines penne pasta and ground beef in a luxurious cream sauce, perfect for a quick family dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz penne pasta Any pasta shape can be substituted.
  • 1 lb lean ground beef Can substitute with turkey or chicken.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Substitute with nutritional yeast for dairy-free.
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tsp olive oil For sautéing.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
  3. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart as it cooks until browned, around 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  6. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For an extra flavor boost, serve with a side salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.