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Easy Ground Beef Pasta

5 from 1 vote
This creamy ground beef pasta is an easy one-pan dinner made with simple ingredients, tomato sauce, cream, and cheese. A cozy 30-minute meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Easy ground beef pasta in creamy tomato sauce ready to serve
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb. (450g) ground beef
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 7 oz. (200g) Elbow pasta
  • 1 onion medium, finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp (about 60 g) butter
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ⅓ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp garlic powder (or 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced)
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 3.5 oz. (100g) сheese, shredded
  • fresh parsley, for serving

Instructions

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until tender. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water, stirring until smooth. Add the tomato sauce and simmer for a few minutes.
  • Stir in the cream, then return the cooked ground beef and add the cheese. Simmer gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated. Finish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Pasta amount: This recipe uses 200 g (7 oz) of dry elbow macaroni for a creamy, saucy texture. Cheese options: Mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend all melt smoothly in the sauce.
    Tomato base: Сrushed tomatoes or tomato purée can also be used.
    Seasoning: Adjust salt, black pepper, garlic, and smoked paprika to taste. Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
    Reheating: Reheat gently and add a splash of cream, milk, or pasta water to loosen the sauce.