Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

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Nothing beats a comforting bowl of creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with savory ground beef and a rich, flavorful sauce. This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner—quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with bold flavors. The combination of tender rotini, juicy beef, and a velvety cheese sauce creates a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is a winner. It’s made with simple pantry staples, requires just one pan, and comes together in under 30 minutes. With a touch of seasoning and a hint of freshness from tomatoes and herbs, every bite is full of creamy, savory goodness.

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Ingredients for Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.

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Step 3: Add Seasonings and Liquids

Stir in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

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Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Pasta

Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and let the pasta sit for a couple of minutes to thicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 750mg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat with a little extra liquid to maintain creaminess.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be less rich.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding red pepper flakes for heat, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta.

What cheese works best in this dish?

Cheddar and Parmesan are great choices, but you can also use mozzarella or Colby Jack for a different twist.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a little more beef broth or milk while stirring.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef while still keeping the dish flavorful.

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