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Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights

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Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights is a rich and hearty one-skillet meal made with savory ground beef, a creamy tomato-Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta. It’s comforting, quick to make, and perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
  5. Add beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  8. Stir in Parmesan cheese and let simmer for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or ground turkey.
  • Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Use milk instead of cream, and add more Parmesan to thicken if needed.
  • Add Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard for more depth.

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