Creamy Beef Pasta
A rich and comforting dish combining penne pasta with a creamy beef sauce, ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Beef Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 lb lean ground beef Provides protein for the dish.
Creamy Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream Use high quality for the best sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce.
- 1 medium onion, diced Gives sweetness and richness when sautéed.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances the creaminess and flavor.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning Brings aromatic flavors.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season according to preference.
- 2 tsp olive oil for sautéing Used to cook the onion and garlic.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
Cooking the Beef
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired sauce consistency is reached. Mix in grated Parmesan until melted.
Combining and Serving
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Allow leftovers to cool completely before refrigerating. Store in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to use.