Name: Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells); 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; 1/2 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb ground beef; 2 tablespoons tomato paste (or 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes); 1/2 cup beef broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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This Creamy Beef Pasta is my ultimate comfort food when the weather gets chilly or I just want a cozy dinner that comes together fast. Tender ground beef, a rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all come together in one pan to make a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to make with simple ingredients, and it always hits the spot. It feels like a homemade version of something I’d get at a restaurant—but faster and more budget-friendly. The creamy sauce hugs every bite of pasta, and the beef adds a savory depth that keeps me coming back for seconds. It’s perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or feeding a hungry crowd. Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work great)
Ground beef
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
Beef broth
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Italian seasoning
Paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper
Olive oil or butter
Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

I cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil or butter and sauté the chopped onion until soft. I add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. I season it with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a little paprika.
I stir in the tomato paste and cook it for a minute to deepen the flavor, then pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for a few minutes.
I reduce the heat and stir in the cream, letting the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
I add the cooked pasta and toss it all together until the pasta is fully coated and heated through.
I finish it with a sprinkle of parmesan and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and about 20–25 minutes to cook, so I usually have it ready in under 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef. When I want a veggie boost, I stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas. For a spicier version, I add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. I’ve also made it with different pasta shapes, or even gluten-free pasta, depending on what I have on hand.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. It’s just as comforting the next day. Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes make the sauce in advance and store it separately. Then I just cook fresh pasta and combine it when ready to eat.

What type of pasta works best?

I like short pastas like penne, rotini, or shells because they hold the sauce well, but honestly, any pasta shape works.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I’ve used dairy-free cream alternatives and skipped the cheese. The sauce still turns out rich and flavorful.

Can I freeze creamy beef pasta?

The pasta can get a bit soft after freezing, but it still tastes good. I let it cool, then freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If I want the sauce thicker, I let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. I also sometimes add a bit of grated cheese or a spoonful of cream cheese to help it stick to the pasta.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef Pasta is everything I want in a cozy night meal—easy, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish I turn to again and again when I need something warm and satisfying. Whether I’m feeding my family or just myself, this creamy pasta always delivers comfort in every bite.