Some nights I just want comfort in a bowl, and creamy beef pasta never lets me down. It feels like the kind of dish that hugs you back. The best part is it’s a true one pot pasta meal, which means less time scrubbing pans and more time actually enjoying dinner. That alone makes me want to cook it on repeat. This recipe strikes a balance between hearty and cozy. It’s rich with savory ground beef, a creamy sauce that clings to every noodle, and a warmth that fills the kitchen. I like to think of it as the kind of pasta meal that makes a busy weeknight feel just a little bit special. It’s one of those food pasta recipes that never asks for much but gives so much back. I lean on this often when I’m looking for high protein dinner recipes that still feel satisfying. It checks the boxes for flavor, comfort, and nutrition. With each forkful, you’ll understand why this dish has become a go-to for me. Healthy recipes pasta dishes aren’t always this easy or this good, but this one proves they can be.

Table of Contents
- 1) Key Takeaways
- 2) Easy Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
- 3) Ingredients for Creamy Beef Pasta
- 4) How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta
- 5) Tips for Making Creamy Beef Pasta
- 6) Making Creamy Beef Pasta Ahead of Time
- 7) Storing Leftover Creamy Beef Pasta
- 8) Try these Main Course next!
- 9) Creamy Beef Pasta
- 10) Nutrition
1) Key Takeaways
- This recipe is a one pot pasta meal that saves time and cuts down on dishes.
- The creamy sauce blends beef, tomatoes, and Parmesan into comfort food at its best.
- It’s high protein, filling, and works for busy weeknights.
- Customize it with turkey, spinach, or mushrooms for a lighter version.
2) Easy Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
When I say this is an easy recipe, I mean it. I love how one pot pasta meals make my kitchen life simple. The beef browns in minutes, the pasta cooks right in the sauce, and the cream ties it all together. Two spoons in, and you’re hooked. I swear, the whole house smells like dinner was made by someone’s grandma who knew what she was doing.
It’s one of those pasta meals that feels both homey and impressive. Guests ask how long it took and I usually laugh because it’s less than half an hour. When the kids hear we’re having food pasta recipes like this, they don’t groan, they cheer. It’s hearty, creamy, and all-around satisfying.
If you want high protein dinner recipes that also taste like comfort, this one covers all bases. I’ve made it more times than I can count, and it always earns empty plates.

3) Ingredients for Creamy Beef Pasta
Ground Beef: The star of the dish, browned until savory and juicy, making the whole pot smell irresistible.
Onion: Chopped and softened until it brings a sweet base flavor that blends with the sauce.
Garlic: Three cloves, minced, because garlic makes every food recipe pasta dish better.
Beef Broth: Rich liquid that carries the pasta and deepens the flavor of the sauce.
Heavy Cream: The creamy element that makes this a comfort meal instead of just another pasta.
Diced Tomatoes: They balance the richness with a touch of tang and color.
Pasta: Penne or rotini soak up the sauce and hold every bit of flavor.
Oregano and Paprika: These spices add warmth and subtle layers that make bites more interesting.
Salt and Pepper: To balance and season everything perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese: Melted in at the end for a nutty finish.
Parsley: Fresh garnish that brightens the whole plate.

4) How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta
Step 1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot. Cook until no pink remains, then drain excess fat. The smell at this point could make a person weak in the knees.
Step 2. Add onion and garlic. Stir until the onion softens and the garlic fills the kitchen with its fragrance. You’ll know it’s ready when people start wandering in asking what’s for dinner.
Step 3. Pour in the beef broth, cream, and diced tomatoes. Mix until the colors blend together and it starts to look like a meal in the making.
Step 4. Add pasta, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir so every piece of pasta sinks into the sauce. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for about 15 minutes, stirring now and then.
Step 5. Once the pasta is tender, remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 6. Garnish with parsley. Serve it warm, and watch how fast it disappears.

5) Tips for Making Creamy Beef Pasta
Cook pasta right in the sauce. It saves a pot and helps the noodles soak up all the flavors. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Don’t skimp on seasoning. Even food pasta recipes with simple ingredients shine when salt and pepper are added in stages, not just at the end. Taste, adjust, taste again.
Want to lighten it up? Try ground turkey or chicken. Add spinach or mushrooms to sneak in vegetables without losing comfort. That’s how this one pot pasta meal stays fresh and flexible.
6) Making Creamy Beef Pasta Ahead of Time
I’ve made this in the morning before a busy day, and it’s a relief to come home knowing dinner’s ready. Just cook as directed, then let it cool before refrigerating. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to life.
The pasta keeps its shape, the sauce stays creamy, and nobody complains about leftovers. It’s one of those high protein dinner recipes that actually improves after resting a bit.
If you’re meal prepping for the week, divide it into containers. It heats up quickly and keeps lunch interesting when you’re tired of sandwiches.
7) Storing Leftover Creamy Beef Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll last up to four days in the fridge. If you’re freezing, place portions in freezer-safe bags. Reheat on the stove instead of the microwave for better texture.
I often make a double batch so there’s plenty for lunch boxes or quick dinners. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving again and it feels like fresh comfort food.
Healthy recipes pasta dishes aren’t always freezer-friendly, but this one holds up well, which makes it a keeper in my book.
8) Try these Main Course next!
9) Creamy Beef Pasta

Creamy Beef Pasta One Pot Pasta Meals
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
- Add the pasta, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on medium heat for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
10) Nutrition
Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups | Calories: 520 | Sugar: 5 g | Sodium: 890 mg | Fat: 27 g | Saturated Fat: 13 g | Carbohydrates: 45 g | Fiber: 3 g | Protein: 28 g | Cholesterol: 95 mg
Recipe written by Elena for Elena Cooks. For more recipes visit Elena Cooks.




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