Creamy Beef Pasta Dinner

Here’s a Creamy Beef Pasta Dinner recipe that’s hearty, easy to make, and full of rich, comforting flavors:

🍝 Creamy Beef Pasta Dinner

🕒 Ready in: 30–35 minutes

🍽️ Serves: 4

🧂 Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if beef is very lean)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

🔪 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:

   • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the beef:

   • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef (and olive oil if needed).

   • Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Sauté aromatics:

   • Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

   • Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.

4. Make the sauce:

   • Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

   • Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer for about 3–4 minutes, reducing slightly.

   • Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Add cheese:

   • Stir in Parmesan cheese and mozzarella (if using) until melted and smooth.

6. Combine pasta and sauce:

   • Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.

7. Garnish and serve:

   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired.

🔁 Variations:

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of beef.

• Veggie boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the onions.

• One-pot method: Add uncooked pasta and 2 cups of broth directly to the skillet and cook everything together (adjust timing).