Creamy Beef Pasta

Name: Creamy Beef Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices); 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish; Olive oil (for cooking)

by Sophia

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When it comes to dinner, I’m all about recipes that bring maximum flavor with minimal stress. That’s where this Creamy Beef Pasta comes in. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines hearty ground beef, tender penne pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special to serve your family, this dish has got you covered. Let me walk you through how to make this satisfying meal step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Beef Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and creamy. Plus, it’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that you probably already have on hand. The best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

Let’s Talk Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a quick look at what you’ll need:

Penne Pasta: The sturdy texture of penne holds up beautifully in the creamy sauce.
Lean Ground Beef: Packed with protein and rich flavor, ground beef is the star of this dish.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatics lay the flavor foundation for the sauce.
Diced Tomatoes and Beef Broth: These add depth and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
Greek Yogurt and Parmesan Cheese: For that irresistibly creamy texture.

Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Pepper: Simple spices that pack a flavorful punch.
Fresh Basil or Parsley: Optional, but these fresh herbs elevate the dish to restaurant quality.

Now that we’ve got everything ready, it’s time to start cooking!

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

The first step is to get your penne pasta cooking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. I love how penne pasta holds onto the sauce in all the little ridges—it’s like a flavor hug in every bite! Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. It can be a lifesaver if your sauce needs a little thinning out later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them until the onions are soft and translucent. You’ll know you’re on the right track when your kitchen starts to smell incredible—garlicky goodness is hard to beat!

Why This Step Matters: Cooking the onions and garlic first helps to release their natural sweetness and adds a deep, savory base to the dish.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. You’ll want to cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which should take about 7–10 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, go ahead and drain it off to keep the dish light.

Quick Tip: For even more flavor, season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

With your beef browned, it’s time to bring everything together with the sauce. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (juices included), beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Bringing It All Together for the Creamiest Beef Pasta

We’ve set the stage with tender pasta, sautéed aromatics, and a flavorful beef-tomato base. Now it’s time to take this dish to the next level by adding those creamy, cheesy touches that make it truly irresistible. Let’s dive right into the next steps of this recipe!

Step 5: Add the Creamy Elements

Here’s where the magic happens. Once your sauce is simmering and has thickened slightly, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese. These two ingredients transform the sauce into a velvety masterpiece, perfectly balanced between creamy and tangy.

Why Greek Yogurt? Greek yogurt is a fantastic addition because it’s a healthier alternative to heavy cream, but it still delivers that rich, creamy texture we all crave. Plus, it adds a slight tanginess that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Now that your sauce is creamy and smooth, it’s time to bring everything together. Gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, making sure every piece is coated in that luscious sauce. This is the moment where the dish truly comes alive—the penne absorbs the flavors, creating a harmonious blend of pasta and sauce.

Pro Tip: If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water. This trick not only thins the sauce to your desired consistency but also helps it cling to the pasta better.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Before you call it done, give your creamy beef pasta a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Let the dish rest off the heat for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

The final step is all about presentation and adding a pop of freshness. Serve the creamy beef pasta in bowls or on plates, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley. The bright, herby notes beautifully complement the rich, savory flavors of the dish.

Tips and Variations

To make this recipe your own, here are a few tips and variations to consider:

Switch Up the Pasta: While penne is a classic choice, feel free to use any short pasta you have on hand, like rigatoni, rotini, or even farfalle.
Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce.

Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, stir in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Cheese Lovers Unite: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, top the finished dish with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or extra Parmesan before serving.
Go Gluten-Free: Simply swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy adjustment.

Why This Recipe Works Every Time

The beauty of this Creamy Beef Pasta lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The ingredients are straightforward, the steps are easy to follow, and the end result is a dish that feels like it came straight out of a cozy Italian trattoria. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe (aside from boiling the pasta), which means minimal cleanup—a major win on busy nights.

As we wrap up this recipe journey, let’s address some of the most common questions about making this creamy, dreamy beef pasta. From ingredient swaps to storage tips, I’ve got you covered. Then we’ll finish off with some encouraging words to get you cooking!

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Creamy Beef Pasta

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully in this dish because it holds the sauce so well, feel free to experiment with rotini, rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure your pasta is perfectly al dente.

2. Can I substitute Greek yogurt? Yes! If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or cream cheese as an alternative. Both will give you that creamy texture, but keep in mind that sour cream has a tangier flavor, and cream cheese will make the dish even richer.

3. How can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Cook the pasta fresh and combine just before serving for the best texture.

4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop, adding a little liquid to bring the sauce back to life.

5. What can I serve alongside this dish? This creamy beef pasta is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.

6. How can I make this recipe lighter? To lighten things up, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for whole-grain or lentil-based pasta. You can also reduce the Parmesan or use a lower-fat version of Greek yogurt.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? Curdling can happen if the sauce gets too hot after adding the Greek yogurt. To avoid this, make sure to reduce the heat to low and stir continuously as you incorporate the yogurt.

Conclusion: A Dish Worth Making Again and Again

There you have it—a quick, easy, and utterly satisfying recipe for Creamy Beef Pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home. It’s comfort food at its best: rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.