Craving something creamy, cozy, and full of flavor that comes together in one pot? This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that satisfies every bite. Perfect for weeknights, this dish is rich, cheesy, and packed with savory ground beef, all swirled into tender pasta and a luscious cream sauce.

It’s the kind of recipe you whip up when time is short but you still want a soul-warming meal. Whether it’s for your family or just a personal indulgence, this stovetop classic delivers full flavor with minimal effort. Let’s walk through the easy prep and the simple tools that make this dish come together in under 30 minutes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta effortlessly, having the right tools is key:

Large Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is your all-in-one pot. It needs to be big enough to hold the ground beef, pasta, and creamy sauce without spilling over.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Essential for breaking up the beef and stirring everything together without scratching your pan.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Helps you get the right ratios of pasta, liquid, and cheese for perfect consistency.
Colander (if pre-boiling pasta): If you’re not cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, this keeps the process tidy.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Needed for mincing garlic, chopping onions, or adding fresh herbs as garnish.

With these tools prepped and ready, making this creamy pasta is as simple as stir, simmer, and serve.

Ingredients for the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Ground Beef: The heart of the recipe. It adds rich, meaty flavor and makes the dish extra satisfying.
Pasta (Fusilli or Rotini preferred): These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Cream Cheese: Gives the dish that signature creamy texture and slight tanginess.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the sauce, delivering bold, cheesy comfort.
Beef Broth: Adds depth and helps cook the pasta right in the skillet.
Garlic & Onion: A classic flavor base that gives this dish its savory backbone.
Paprika & Black Pepper: For warmth and just the right kick.
Heavy Cream: Makes everything silkier and indulgent.
Parsley (optional): A fresh garnish that balances the richness.

How To Make the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In your large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break it apart with your spoon or spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Stir in paprika and a pinch of black pepper.

Step 3: Pour and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Let It Cook

Simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and the sauce is silky smooth.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving for a fresh finish.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Serve this pasta hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. It pairs well with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to mop up the sauce.

To store, let the pasta cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to revive the silky texture. It also reheats well in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Fusilli, rotini, penne, or shells are great choices. They all hold onto the creamy sauce, giving you a perfect bite every time.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and still soaks up the flavor beautifully.

Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, undercook the pasta slightly and reheat with added cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can substitute plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. Coconut cream can replace heavy cream in a pinch.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, though cream-based sauces may slightly separate. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month, and thaw overnight before reheating.

What can I add to boost the flavor?

A splash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a spoonful of Dijon mustard can add layers of depth.

Want More Ground Beef Pasta Ideas?

If you love the satisfying richness of creamy beef pasta, you’ll definitely want to explore these other comforting pasta dishes:

Try the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a cheesy oven-baked variation with bowties that hold sauce like a dream. Or take a peek at the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce—it leans into bold garlic notes with a buttery finish.

The One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta brings a spicy twist and tender steak bites for something more elevated. For fans of layered pasta bakes, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti offers rich creaminess with every forkful.

Looking for daily inspiration? Visit my Pinterest board, LadyPlate on Pinterest, where I share new recipes and quick dinner ideas regularly.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your pasta night board for easy access. Just click the Pin button.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to know how it turned out! Did you add mushrooms or use another type of cheese? Leave a comment below. I always enjoy seeing your delicious twists.

Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is the ultimate one-skillet comfort food. Loaded with savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a luscious blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and heavy cream, it delivers hearty flavor in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights or cozy dinners.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it apart with a spatula and drain any excess grease.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Stir in paprika and black pepper.

3. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well, then add the uncooked pasta.

4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

5. Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese and cheddar. Mix until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

6. Adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.