Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights | Comfort Food Dinner Idea
"This creamy beef pasta recipe is rich, hearty, and perfect for cozy nights. Tender beef and pasta tossed in a creamy sauce make the ultimate comfort food for family dinners or chilly evenings."
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Pasta pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or steak strips)
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or egg noodles)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Brown Beef: Heat olive oil in skillet. Add beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
- Build Sauce: Stir in broth, cream, and tomato paste. Simmer gently until thickened.
- Combine: Add pasta to sauce. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed for silky consistency.
- Finish: Stir in Parmesan. Garnish with parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water: Adds starch for a smooth, clinging sauce.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Keep it al dente for best texture.
- Variations: Add mushrooms and spinach, chili flakes for spice, or swap cream for cashew cream in vegan versions.
- Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for 2–3 days. Reheat gently with splash of cream or broth.