Best Creamy Beef and Cheese Pasta
If you're craving a hearty, creamy, and comforting dish, look no further than this Best Creamy Beef and Cheese Pasta. This recipe combines tender pasta with a rich and creamy sauce made from savory ground beef, melted cheese, and a blend of spices. The creamy sauce is the perfect complement to the beef, creating a rich and indulgent meal that's both filling and satisfying. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this creamy beef and cheese pasta is sure to become a favorite.
Equipment
- Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for cheese)
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- For the Beef and Cheese Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite melting cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter optional for extra creaminess
- For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni work well
- Salt for boiling pasta water
Instructions
- For the Pasta:
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- For the Beef and Cheese Sauce:
- Cook the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Season and Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to caramelize and deepen the flavor.
- Add Beef Broth and Cream: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Melt in the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. For extra creaminess, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Divide the creamy beef and cheese pasta into bowls or plates. If desired, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor.