Creamy Beef Pasta – Rich, Comforting, and Perfect for Cozy Nights

Hey There! Let’s Make a Creamy Penne Beef Pasta Together

If you’re anything like me, a warm, comforting pasta dish is the ultimate go-to after a long day. I love this creamy penne pasta with ground beef because it’s rich, satisfying, and truly hits the spot when you want something hearty but simple. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up even on busy weeknights!

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Might Too!)

This recipe combines tender pasta with a creamy, flavorful beef sauce that wraps every bite in cheesy goodness. It’s got that cozy vibe but still feels a bit special thanks to the fresh parsley and a touch of oregano. Best part? It’s very adaptable if you want to make it your own, which I’ll tell you all about below.

Nutritional Benefits of This Creamy Beef Penne

While this dish feels indulgent, there are some nutritional perks to keep in mind!

• Protein-packed: The ground beef provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and keeps you feeling full.
• Calcium boost: The cheese and heavy cream add calcium, which is great for your bones and teeth.
• Lycopene from tomatoes: Those diced tomatoes bring lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health.
• Energy fuel: Pasta is a great source of carbohydrates, giving you the energy to power through your day or evening.

Of course, you want to enjoy this recipe in balance with your usual meals, but I love how it delivers comfort and nourishment together!

Mix It Up! Variations to Try

Feeling creative? Here are some ways to make this dish fit your taste buds or dietary needs:

• Swap beef for turkey or chicken: Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully if you want a leaner protein choice.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and use sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or crumbled tofu to keep it hearty.
• Lighten the cream: Use half-and-half or even whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Cheese choices: Parmesan gives a sharp kick, while mozzarella melts creamy—mix them or try provolone for a different vibe.
• Herb swap: If you don’t have oregano, fresh basil or thyme can add a lovely twist.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for a gentle heat.

Here’s How I Make It: Step-by-Step

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Easy Cooking Steps

1. First, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (that’s just perfectly tender, with a tiny bite). Then drain and set it aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, warm your olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions get soft and clear.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more—you’ll notice that amazing garlic aroma filling the kitchen!
4. Now add the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked all the way through (about 6-8 minutes). If there’s extra fat, feel free to drain it to keep things from getting greasy.
5. Stir in your diced tomatoes and sprinkle in that dried oregano or Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Let everything simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend those flavors beautifully.
6. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it all smoothly. Lower the heat and let the sauce thicken a bit, around 3-5 minutes.
7. Mix in your shredded cheese and stir until it melts into a creamy, dreamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as you like.
8. Finally, toss in your cooked penne pasta and gently stir to coat every noodle with that amazing beef sauce. Heat everything together for 2 more minutes so it’s hot and ready.
9. Take the pan off the heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to brighten it up, and dig in while it’s warm!

Helpful Tips to Make it Even Better

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente texture makes the whole dish more enjoyable — it won’t get mushy when tossed with the sauce.
• Use fresh garlic if you can: It really lifts the flavor compared to pre-minced jarred garlic.
• Cheese melting tip: Add cheese to the sauce off the heat or on very low, so it melts smoothly without separating.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the beef sauce in advance and just reheat it when your pasta is ready to save time in the evening.
• Storage: Keep leftovers 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 cream or milk to keep it creamy.

Equipment You’ll Want Ready

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Large skillet or cast-iron pan for the sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for prepping veggies
• Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Definitely! Rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti can work if penne isn’t on hand.
2. What if I don’t eat beef? You can swap in ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based grounds like Beyond Meat with great results.
3. Is it okay to use less cream? Yes, just keep an eye on the sauce consistency and maybe add a little milk or broth if it gets too thick.
4. Can I add veggies? Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms work wonderfully tossed in with the sauce.
5. How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out? Warm gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or cream and stir often to keep it creamy.

Give It a Go and Share Your Experience!

I hope you get to try this creamy penne pasta recipe soon — it’s one of those dishes I always feel good about making, and it never disappoints. If you do try it, please stop by and let me know how it turned out! Better yet, share your photos and tweaks on Pinterest or your favorite social platform so we can inspire more cozy meal ideas together. Happy cooking!