Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

6 janvier 2026 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction

This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is a fast weeknight winner that delivers big comfort with minimal fuss. It cooks in one pan, so cleanup is quick and you get rich, saucy pasta without babysitting multiple pots. Swap any short pasta you have on hand to make it even faster. For extra ideas and a similar comfort recipe, see Creamy Beef Pasta ultimate easy comfort food.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe keeps things simple by building flavor in a single skillet so every bite is saucy and cohesive. Browning the ground beef first creates savory depth that carries through the dish. Using canned diced tomatoes saves prep time while adding acidity to balance the cream. Heavy cream turns the tomato base into a silky sauce without needing a roux. Adding the pasta directly to the simmering sauce lets the noodles finish cooking while soaking up flavor, saving a pot and time. The whole method is forgiving, so you can tweak timing by a few minutes without ruining texture.

Flavor and Texture

The browned beef gives a meaty, savory backbone while the tomatoes add brightness and a touch of sweetness. Heavy cream smooths the tomatoes into a luscious, clingy sauce that coats every noodle. Sautéed onion and garlic provide an aromatic base that keeps the dish tasting fresh and homey. A final sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds salty umami and a slight granular finish that contrasts the cream. Texturally, aim for pasta just shy of perfectly soft before finishing in the sauce so it ends al dente and pleasantly firm.

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef
– 12 ounces pasta (your choice)
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer, then add the pasta, stirring to combine.
5. Cook according to pasta package instructions until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use shorter pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells so they cook quickly and catch more sauce. If you want to cut time, use pre-chopped onion or frozen minced garlic for convenience. Save even more effort by swapping heavy cream for half and half if you prefer a lighter sauce, but simmer gently to prevent separation. Leftover cooked pasta can be reheated in a splash of water or stock to revive the sauce. For alternate weeknight ideas and swaps, check quick and easy beef pasta for busy weeknights.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool leftovers quickly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and avoid drying out the beef. This pasta freezes reasonably well; portion into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight before reheating. When meal prepping, keep grated Parmesan separate until serving to preserve texture.

Short Closing Note

This stovetop pasta is pure weeknight practicality: fast, comforting, and adaptable. Keep pantry staples on hand and you can pull it together in a half hour or less.

Conclusion

For another great take on creamy ground beef pasta with extra tips and photos, see Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta at Salt & Lavender.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.