Name: Comforting Creamy Pasta Dish with Beef: Family Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of your choice; 1 lb ground beef or sliced beef strips; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp flour; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy pasta dish with beef is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It combines rich flavors, tender beef, and a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner for the whole family, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s easy to customize and makes for great leftovers!

Ingredients

Pasta of your choice
Ground beef or sliced beef strips
Onion
Garlic
Heavy cream
Milk
Butter
Flour
Parmesan cheese
Cheddar cheese
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the ground beef or sliced beef strips until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Make the Sauce Base: Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring well to form a roux. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and gradually add heavy cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
Add the Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix well. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor.
Healthier Option: Use whole wheat pasta and replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese varieties such as Gouda, Fontina, or Mozzarella.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and beef ahead of time, then cook the pasta fresh before serving.

What beef cut works best?

Ground beef is convenient, but thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye can add a richer flavor.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A fresh side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great pairings.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine before adding broth can enhance the flavor.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid high heat and stir constantly when adding dairy ingredients.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s better to shred your own cheese, as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, cooked shredded or diced chicken works as a great alternative.

Conclusion

This comforting creamy pasta dish with beef is a surefire way to bring warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. With its rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that pleases the whole family. Try it today, and enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite!

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