Description
This Easy Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a quick and comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Tender pasta is tossed in a rich, creamy tomato sauce loaded with browned ground beef, garlic, and a touch of Italian seasoning. A hint of Dijon mustard elevates the flavors, while the optional parmesan cheese adds a savory finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty dish combines simple ingredients for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese, optional, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
- Brown Ground Beef and Garlic: Add the ground beef and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it browns. If there is excess fat, spoon it out to prevent greasiness.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with juices, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Reduce heat and let simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to warm through and reduce a bit for a creamy texture.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Season the sauce generously with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing until well coated.
- Serve: Divide the creamy ground beef pasta among plates and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth to the sauce but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat, or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh herbal note.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
