Description
A rich, creamy, and savory pasta dish made with seasoned ground beef, a luscious cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one pan! Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this meal is perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef
12 oz (340g) pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 cup diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup mushrooms or spinach
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: If not cooking it directly in the sauce, boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions until soft, then add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add Seasonings and Garlic: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce Base: Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and slowly add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer briefly to absorb flavors.
- Final Touches: Adjust seasoning as needed. Stir in optional ingredients like diced tomatoes or spinach.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan, then serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish