Creamy Beef Penne Pasta
Creamy Beef Penne Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. With tender penne pasta, hearty ground beef, and a luxurious cheese sauce, this recipe delivers indulgent comfort with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just half an hour with simple steps.
- Rich and Creamy: Features a velvety sauce made with Parmesan, mozzarella, and heavy cream.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser with classic, comforting flavors.
- Customizable: Adapt it with additional veggies, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients Breakdown
The Pasta
- Penne Pasta: 300 g
Penne’s tube-like shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly. You can substitute with rigatoni, ziti, or your favorite pasta.
The Meat
- Ground Beef: 300 g
Adds savory richness to the dish. Use lean ground beef for a less greasy option.
The Flavor Base
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
For sautéing the beef and enhancing the overall flavor. - Garlic (Minced): 2 cloves
Adds aromatic depth to the dish. - Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Provides a subtle smoky flavor. - Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
Enhances the spice blend without overwhelming the dish. - Salt: ½ teaspoon
Balances the flavors.
The Sauce
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
The base of the creamy sauce, lending richness and smoothness. - Parmesan Cheese (Grated): 1 cup
Adds sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce. - Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded): 1 cup
Melts beautifully, creating a stretchy, gooey texture. - Nutmeg (Optional): ¼ teaspoon
A hint of nutmeg adds warmth and complexity to the creamy sauce.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions (about 8–10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce if needed.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
- Add the minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the skillet with the browned beef.
- Stir well and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the garlic to release its aroma.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine with the beef and spices.
- Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly.
- If using, sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg for added warmth.
- Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely, forming a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce.
- Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the sauce.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes over low heat, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.
- Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents overcooked, mushy pasta when combined with the sauce.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer ensures the flavors meld and the consistency is creamy.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: Use pasta water or additional cream to thin the sauce if it thickens too much.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Veggie Boost: Stir in cooked spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Herb Infusion: Finish with fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
- Chicken or Turkey: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Freezer
- While freezing creamy dishes can alter the texture, you can freeze this pasta for up to 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Bread Pairing: Serve alongside garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Drink Options: A glass of sparkling water with lemon or a fruit-infused iced tea complements the richness of the dish.
Why This Recipe Works
Creamy Beef Penne Pasta strikes the perfect balance between hearty and indulgent. The ground beef provides a robust base, while the combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a silky, flavorful sauce. The nutmeg adds a subtle hint of warmth that enhances the overall taste. Together with perfectly cooked penne, this dish is a comforting classic that’s both easy and delicious.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~22g
- Fat: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
Final Thoughts
Creamy Beef Penne Pasta is the kind of meal that turns ordinary weeknights into something special. Its quick preparation, comforting flavors, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for families and pasta lovers alike. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Gather your ingredients and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this hearty pasta tonight!