Creamy Beef Pasta is a comforting, hearty meal that fits perfectly into your busy weeknight routine. This recipe combines tender pasta shells with a rich, creamy tomato sauce loaded with ground beef and melted cheese. It’s a budget-friendly dinner that delivers warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite go-to when you want something quick yet delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
You’ll appreciate how simple and fast this recipe is to prepare, especially on hectic nights. The combination of tomato soup and cream creates a velvety sauce that coats every pasta shell, giving it an indulgent texture without much fuss. Ground beef adds hearty protein, while the mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses brings richness and a beautiful melt that ties everything together. Plus, this recipe uses pantry staples like canned soup and dried pasta, making it super convenient and budget-conscious.
Ingredients for Creamy Beef Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:
- 8 ounces (half a box) of pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3/4 cup diced onion (about half an onion; frozen diced onion works great if you’re short on time)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cans Campbell’s tomato soup
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Creamy Beef Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta shells according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat a pan over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it thoroughly until browned, then drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
In a large pan, warm the olive oil and add diced onions. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they become translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting them cook together for about a minute to release their flavors.
Pour the two cans of tomato soup and half a cup of water into the pan, stirring well. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Next, add the drained ground beef, the heavy cream, and the cooked pasta shells. Stir everything over medium heat, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the noodles evenly.
Once the mixture is combined and heated through, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious. Finally, season with salt and pepper to your preference.
Your creamy beef pasta is ready to serve right away, piping hot and rich with cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Creamy Beef Pasta
Serve this dish straight from the pan for maximum comfort and warmth. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. You can also add a side of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
If you want to add a bit of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of herbal brightness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
For a family-style meal, bring the pan to the table and let everyone help themselves, making it a relaxed and inviting dinner experience.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef Pasta
To get the best texture, make sure not to overcook your pasta shells during boiling. They should be al dente since they’ll continue cooking slightly once combined with the sauce.
If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten up the dish without losing flavor. Just keep the cooking times similar.
Don’t skip draining the cooked ground beef well, as excess fat can make the sauce greasy and weigh down the creamy texture.
When stirring in the cheese, lower the heat to avoid scorching or clumping. Stir gently but continuously until the cheese melts smoothly.
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning during sautéing.
How to Store Creamy Beef Pasta
If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Stored properly, the pasta will keep well for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce as it thickens in the fridge.
Avoid microwaving without stirring, as the cheese can separate and become rubbery. Slow reheating preserves the creamy consistency and delicious flavor.
Variations on Creamy Beef Pasta
For a vegetable boost, toss in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when you sauté the onions. This adds nutrients and extra color to your meal.
If you want to switch up the cheese, try a mix of gouda or Monterey Jack for a different creamy flavor profile. Parmesan sprinkled on top just before serving adds a nice salty bite.
For a lower-carb version, use spiralized zucchini noodles instead of pasta shells. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid over-softening the veggies.
You can also swap the tomato soup for a homemade tomato sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs if you prefer a fresher taste. This takes a bit longer but makes the dish feel more from scratch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Beef Pasta
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Pasta shells are ideal because their shape holds the creamy sauce well, but you can also use elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and sauce separately and combine them just before serving. Store components separately in the fridge for up to two days.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It can be frozen, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly. To freeze, cool the dish completely, place it in a freezer-safe container, and consume within one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses. Just keep in mind how they melt and taste to maintain the creamy, cheesy balance.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Skip the ground beef and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Creamy Beef Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta shells (half a box)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3/4 cup diced onion (about half an onion; frozen works great)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cans Campbell’s tomato soup
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or Italian cheese blend
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Boil pasta shells according to package instructions. While cooking, brown ground beef in a pan, then drain excess fat.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté diced onions for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute.
- Stir in tomato soup and water, bringing to a simmer. Add the drained ground beef, heavy cream, and cooked pasta shells, mixing thoroughly.
- Incorporate shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
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