Savory Creamy Pasta with Beef and Cheddar
Savory Creamy Pasta with Beef and Cheddar is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of beef and cheese with the satisfying texture of pasta. It’s a meal that the whole family will love, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This creamy pasta dish is an excellent way to combine simple ingredients into a fulfilling meal that satisfies everyone’s taste buds.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also features ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The combination of ground beef and cheddar cheese provides a hearty source of protein and flavor. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, meaning fewer dishes to wash afterward! You can have it ready in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.
How to Make Savory Creamy Pasta with Beef and Cheddar
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups medium pasta shells
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly golden. Gradually add the milk and beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy beef sauce.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
How to Serve Savory Creamy Pasta with Beef and Cheddar
You can serve this dish warm right from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. If you want to make it extra special, serve it in individual bowls and sprinkle with more parsley for color.
How to Store Savory Creamy Pasta with Beef and Cheddar
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool down to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.
Tips to Make Savory Creamy Pasta with Beef and Cheddar
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish less greasy.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the spice level by omitting or increasing the red pepper flakes based on your taste.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. You can also use whole wheat pasta shells for a healthier alternative. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! You can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella or Monterey jack. Just make sure they melt well.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add more red pepper flakes or include sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best to avoid freezing creamy dishes as they may separate when thawed. However, if you must, make sure it’s completely cool before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Use within one month for the best quality.
Savory Creamy Pasta with Beef and Cheddar
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delicious and comforting one-pan pasta dish that combines ground beef and cheddar cheese with pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups medium pasta shells
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly golden. Gradually add the milk and beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy beef sauce.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Use lean ground beef to keep the dish less greasy. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, beef pasta, comforting meals, one-pan dishes, quick dinner