When it comes to comfort food that’s quick, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with seasoned beef, this dish brings cozy vibes to your table with minimal effort and ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Think of it as your favorite hamburger helper—but homemade, fresher, and way more flavorful. The tender pasta soaks up every bit of that luscious, velvety cheese sauce, creating a one-pot meal the whole family will beg you to make again.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

This recipe is very forgiving, and that means you can use whatever short pasta you have on hand. Fusilli (like in the photo), rotini, penne, or even shells all work beautifully. The key is using pasta with grooves or folds that catch the creamy sauce and bits of beef.

Ingredients for the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Ground Beef: Adds rich, savory depth to the dish. Opt for 80/20 for flavor or leaner if you prefer.

Pasta: Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells hold the sauce well and cook quickly.

Cheddar Cheese: Gives the sauce its bold, sharp cheesiness.

Cream Cheese: Helps achieve that ultra-creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.

Garlic and Onion: These aromatics layer in tons of flavor.

Beef Broth: Adds moisture and savory depth to the sauce without watering it down.

Heavy Cream: Rounds out the sauce with richness and indulgence.

Salt, Pepper, and Paprika: Simple seasonings that bring everything to life.

How To Make the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the beef. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Pour in Broth & Simmer

Add the beef broth and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together and let it simmer.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Pour in your dry pasta and stir to combine. Cover and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir until melted and the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Finish by pouring in the heavy cream and simmering for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and brightness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving and Storing Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the cheese is melty and the sauce is silky. Leftovers? No problem. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

What to Serve With Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft inside—the ideal vehicle for scooping up extra sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A fresh, green contrast to the creamy richness.

Caesar Salad

Crisp, garlicky, and cool—a refreshing bite alongside hot pasta.

Roasted Green Beans

Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest for a flavorful side.

Sautéed Spinach

Lightly wilted greens that complement the dish without overpowering it.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cool and crisp with a vinegar-based dressing to cut through the cream.

Parmesan Zucchini Rounds

Baked or pan-fried for a cheesy low-carb pairing.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Creamy Twist?

If this stovetop beef pasta hit the spot, check out these other cozy, creamy favorites:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch up the pasta or add veggies? Maybe a spicy twist?

I love seeing how others customize it. Got questions? I’m happy to help!

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Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

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Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Need a fast, ultra-comforting dinner the whole family will love? This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is your answer! It’s a one-pot wonder that blends hearty ground beef, velvety cheese sauce, and tender pasta into a creamy, flavor-packed dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need an easy recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste. Whether you’re searching for a quick dinner idea, a weeknight pasta dish, or simply something delicious to break out of the boring meal rut, this easy recipe checks all the boxes.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and soft.

3. Stir in beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add uncooked pasta and stir well. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed (about 10-12 minutes).

5. Add cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir until fully melted and creamy.

6. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to thicken.

7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.