This creamy ground beef pasta combines simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful dish. With tender pasta coated in a rich tomato-cream sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 ounces uncooked pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 pound lean ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for depth of flavor)
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Base
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Cook the Beef
Add the ground beef and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 8 minutes, breaking the meat into crumbles as it browns. If there’s excess grease, spoon it out.
Build the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 4-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Add the Cream
Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce cook for another 3-5 minutes until slightly reduced and creamy.
Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser with simple, familiar ingredients.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of tomato and cream creates a luxurious sauce.

Tips

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
If you prefer a thinner sauce, reserve a bit of the pasta water and add it to the sauce.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the ground beef.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce.
Pasta Choices: Try it with penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine instead of traditional pasta shapes.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
The sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when reheating for the best texture.

How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Serving and Suggestions

Pairing Ideas: Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Beverage Pairing: Pair with a glass of red wine like Merlot or a sparkling water infused with lemon.
Leftover Ideas: Use the leftovers as a filling for baked pasta dishes like stuffed peppers or a creamy pasta bake.

This creamy ground beef pasta recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your dinner rotation, combining ease, versatility, and rich flavors in every bite.