This Creamy Beef and Cheese Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Serve it alongside warm garlic knots, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dish everyone will love!
Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Cheese Pasta
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g)
- Rigatoni or Penne Pasta: 12 oz (340g)
- Diced Tomatoes (canned): 1 cup (with juice)
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Cheddar Cheese (shredded): 1 1/2 cups
- Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): 1 cup
- Garlic Cloves: 2, minced
- Onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): For garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes
Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the diced tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Cheesy Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy beef sauce.
Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot alongside garlic knots or breadsticks.
Tips for the Best Creamy Beef and Cheese Pasta
Use Fresh Cheese: Shred your cheese from a block for the creamiest sauce—pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
Add a Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
Alternative Proteins: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
Conclusion
This Creamy Beef and Cheese Pasta Recipe is a family favorite that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. With its hearty flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect dish for satisfying cravings or feeding a crowd. Whip it up tonight and savor the ultimate comfort food