Name: Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 oz rotini or penne pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika (optional); 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

There’s something so comforting about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that comes together in one pan. This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is the perfect blend of rich, savory flavors and hearty textures, making it an instant favorite. The combination of tender pasta, well-seasoned ground beef, and a luscious, velvety sauce creates a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

I love making this dish on busy weeknights when I need something filling and quick. It doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps, yet it tastes like something you’d get from a cozy, home-cooked dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use pantry staples while delivering a meal that everyone will want seconds of.

Why You’ll Love This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy dinner with your family.
Rich and Creamy – The sauce is ultra-smooth, clinging to every bite of pasta.
Hearty and Filling – Perfect for when you need a meal that will keep everyone full.
Kid-Friendly – A comforting dish that even picky eaters will love.
Quick to Make – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy nights.
Easy to Customize – Swap out ingredients to fit what you have on hand.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

When making stovetop creamy ground beef pasta, the type of pasta you choose makes a big difference in texture and how well it holds onto the sauce. Short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, penne, or shells work best because they have ridges or curves that trap the creamy sauce and bits of ground beef. These shapes also cook evenly and stay tender without becoming mushy.

If you prefer a different pasta, elbow macaroni or farfalle (bowtie pasta) are also great choices. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, as they don’t mix as well with the thick, meaty sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used, but be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. If you’re missing an ingredient or want to switch things up, here are some great alternatives:

Ground Meat – Instead of beef, try ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.
Pasta – Use whole wheat, chickpea, or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
Cheese – Sharp cheddar is a favorite, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan for a deeper, nuttier taste.
Milk/Cream – If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use whole milk, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
Vegetables – Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to pack in more nutrients.
Broth – Swap beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth if needed.

With these options, you can make this creamy beef pasta your own while still keeping it delicious and satisfying!

Ingredients for This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in making it rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Ground Beef – Provides a hearty, savory base for the dish and adds delicious flavor to the sauce.
Pasta (Rotini, Fusilli, or Penne) – These pasta shapes hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Onion – Adds depth and a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
Beef Broth – Helps cook the pasta while adding extra meaty flavor to the sauce.
Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and velvety sauce that makes the dish irresistibly creamy.
Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the sauce for a gooey, cheesy finish. Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor.
Diced Tomatoes (Optional) – Adds a slight tang and balance to the richness of the sauce.
Butter – Gives the sauce a silky texture and enhances the overall taste.
Flour – Helps thicken the sauce and bind all the flavors together.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors in the dish.
Paprika (Optional) – Adds a touch of warmth and subtle smokiness.
Fresh Parsley (for Garnish) – Brings a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

With these simple but flavorful ingredients, you’ll create a creamy and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat a little butter or oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the pan with the beef and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds the deep, savory base of the dish.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the beef and onion mixture, stirring to coat. This helps thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.

Next, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes rich and creamy. If using diced tomatoes, add them now for extra flavor.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Adjust the seasoning to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra broth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another minute to absorb the flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Enjoy!

How Long to Cook the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking time:

Pasta: 8-12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta used.
Ground Beef: 5-7 minutes, until fully browned.
Aromatics (Onion & Garlic): 2-3 minutes to soften and release flavor.
Sauce: 5-7 minutes, including thickening the broth and melting the cheese.
Final Simmer: 1-2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.

In total, this recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Tips for Perfect Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Use the Right Pasta – Short pasta like rotini or penne holds onto the sauce better than spaghetti or linguine.
Drain the Grease – After browning the beef, remove excess grease to prevent an overly oily dish.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook it al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce.
Warm the Dairy First – If your heavy cream is cold, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding it to prevent curdling.
Season in Layers – Taste the sauce as you go and adjust seasoning gradually for the best balance.
Save Pasta Water – A splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Melt Cheese Off Heat – To prevent the cheese from becoming grainy, stir it in after lowering the heat.
Let It Rest Before Serving – Giving it a minute off the heat allows the flavors to meld together.

With these simple tips, you’ll get a rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned pasta dish every time!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is easy, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the Pasta – Since the pasta will continue absorbing the sauce, cook it just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Skipping the Grease Drain – Too much grease from the ground beef can make the dish overly oily. Always drain excess fat before adding other ingredients.
Adding Cold Dairy – Pouring cold heavy cream into a hot pan can cause it to curdle. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate your own for the best creamy texture.
Not Thickening the Sauce Properly – If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken.
Forgetting to Taste as You Go – Seasoning gradually and tasting ensures the perfect balance of salt and spices.
Overheating the Cheese – Stir in the cheese off the heat to prevent it from becoming grainy.
Not Reserving Pasta Water – A little pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

Avoid these mistakes, and your pasta will turn out perfectly creamy and flavorful every time!

What to Serve With Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta?

This rich and hearty pasta pairs well with a variety of sides to balance the flavors. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion for soaking up every bit of that creamy sauce.

2. Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasting veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers adds a nice contrast of texture and flavor.

4. Steamed Green Beans

A simple side of tender green beans with a touch of butter and salt is a great way to add some greens to your plate.

5. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms add an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

6. Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts

Pan-fried Brussels sprouts with garlic and a hint of lemon bring a delicious crunch to your meal.

7. Classic Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons tossed in creamy Caesar dressing make a perfect side.

8. A Glass of Red Wine

If you’re looking for a drink pairing, a light red wine like Pinot Noir complements the dish beautifully.

With these side options, you can turn this creamy pasta into a complete and satisfying meal!

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, this stovetop creamy ground beef pasta stores well and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing – This pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months, but keep in mind that the dairy-based sauce may separate slightly when thawed. Store in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.

How to Reheat

Stovetop – Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture. Stir frequently.
Microwave – Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Add a little liquid if needed to keep the sauce from drying out.
From Frozen – Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating using one of the above methods.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 650-750 kcal
Protein: 35-40g
Carbohydrates: 50-60g
Fat: 35-40g
Saturated Fat: 15-20g
Cholesterol: 90-110mg
Sodium: 800-1000mg
Fiber: 3-5g
Sugar: 4-6g

These numbers can vary depending on the type of pasta, cheese, and cream used. For a lighter version, try using lean ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, and reduced-fat dairy alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage all work well as substitutes. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the dish.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use whole milk, half-and-half, or even a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy consistency.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it with a little extra broth or milk to restore the creamy texture.

4. How do I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Make sure to remove the pan from direct heat before adding the cheese. Stir it in gradually to let it melt smoothly.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or peas would all be great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

6. Is this pasta spicy?

No, but if you like a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a kick.

7. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

8. How can I make this dish lower in fat?

Use lean ground meat, reduced-fat cheese, and substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a lower-fat milk alternative.

Conclusion

This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy nights. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too!