Creamy Ground Beef Pasta – Easy One-Pan Dinner Everyone Loves

This creamy ground beef pasta is rich, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Made with tender pasta, seasoned beef, and a smooth creamy sauce, this is one of the best quick pasta recipes for busy nights.

It’s comforting, filling, and comes together fast—perfect for family dinners or viral food content that gets clicks.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: ~30 minutes
• Servings: 4–5
• Calories: ~520 per serving

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or similar)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell peppers (red & green), sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta

Boil pasta according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.

2. Cook Beef

In a large pan over medium heat:

• Add olive oil
• Cook ground beef until browned
• Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes
• Add garlic and peppers, cook another 3–4 minutes

3. Make Cream Sauce

Pour in:

• heavy cream
• milk

Stir well and bring to a light simmer.

4. Add Cheese & Seasoning

Add:

• shredded cheese
• salt, pepper
• Italian seasoning, paprika

Stir until smooth and creamy.

5. Combine

Add cooked pasta to the pan.
Mix until fully coated in sauce.

6. Serve

Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips (10/10 Quality)

• Use freshly shredded cheese → smoother melt
• Don’t overcook pasta → better texture
• Simmer sauce gently → prevents separation
• Add pasta water if needed → perfect consistency

Best Variations

• Add mushrooms for extra flavor
• Use spicy sausage instead of beef
• Add chili flakes for heat

Serving Ideas

• Garlic bread
• Side salad
• Roasted vegetables

FAQ

Can I use another pasta?
Yes, any short pasta works.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, reheat with a splash of milk.

How to store leftovers?
Refrigerate up to 3 days.