Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and easy-to-make dinner that everyone will love, this Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is the perfect solution. It’s loaded with rich, savory flavors, featuring tender rotini pasta and ground beef in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a family gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy.

This recipe is great for busy nights because it comes together quickly and uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Ready to learn how to make this delicious meal? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

This recipe is a winner for several reasons:

• Quick and easy: You can have this on the table in less than 30 minutes.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory, cheesy flavors.
• Versatile: It’s easy to customize, and you can use whatever pasta or cheese you prefer.
• Affordable: It uses basic ingredients that are budget-friendly.

Key Ingredients for Ground Beef Pasta

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful pasta dish:

• Ground Beef: We’re using 1½ pounds of 85% lean ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
• Rotini Pasta: Rotini works wonderfully in this recipe because its spiral shape holds onto the sauce. You’ll need ½ pound of it.
• Tomato Sauce: A 16 oz can of tomato sauce gives the dish its rich base.
• Cheddar Cheese: A cup of shredded cheddar adds creaminess and a savory bite.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor while keeping the sauce light.
• Half and Half: This mixture of milk and cream brings a velvety richness to the sauce.
• Onion, Garlic, and Italian Seasoning: These aromatics and seasonings boost the flavor, adding warmth and depth.

this RECIPE

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? Here are some substitutions you can try:

• Ground beef alternatives: You can easily swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Different pasta shapes: Penne, fusilli, or any short pasta will work great in this dish if you don’t have rotini.
• Cheese options: Try mozzarella or Parmesan if you prefer a different cheese flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the following tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium saucepan for boiling pasta
• Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater
• Strainer for draining pasta

How to Prepare Ground Beef Pasta

This Ground Beef Pasta Recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. Follow this guide for a perfectly delicious and creamy pasta dish.

1. Shred Cheese and Prepare Half and Half

First, shred your cheddar cheese and measure out the half and half. Set them aside to ensure they aren’t too cold when added to the sauce.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium heat. As it browns, add in the diced onions halfway through and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease, then add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of flour (optional). Let the mixture cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to remove any raw flour taste.

4. Build the Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the 16 oz of tomato sauce and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes to let the flavors blend.

5. Boil the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook for about 7 minutes, or according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

6. Add Half and Half and Cheese

Slowly pour the half and half into the sauce, stirring as you go. Then, reduce the heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. Serve hot, and enjoy with a side of garlic bread for the perfect finishing touch!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few tips to ensure your Ground Beef Pasta turns out perfectly:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure to follow the package instructions and cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to soften once mixed with the sauce.
• Slowly add cheese: Adding the cheese all at once can lead to clumping. Make sure to sprinkle it in gradually while stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
• Don’t rush the flour step: If you add flour, make sure to cook it for a few minutes. This prevents the sauce from having a raw flour taste.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Pasta

Presentation matters, even for a quick weeknight dinner! Serve your Ground Beef Pasta with:

• Garlic bread: A slice of cheesy garlic bread complements the savory pasta beautifully.
• Side salad: A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed vegetables: Add some nutrition to the meal by serving with steamed broccoli or green beans.

How to Store Leftovers

Have leftovers? This dish stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep your pasta fresh:

• Fridge: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freezer: This pasta freezes well! Place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ for Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work well in this recipe. Use whatever pasta you have on hand.

What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from being too thick?
If your sauce gets too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth or half and half to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based cream or milk alternative and opt for dairy-free cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.

Final Thoughts on Ground Beef Pasta

This Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is a delicious, comforting meal that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The rich, creamy sauce, paired with tender rotini pasta and hearty ground beef, is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to the blog for more easy and flavorful dinner ideas!

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