This stovetop ground beef pasta recipe is warm, creamy, and full of comfort. It cooks in one pan and fills the kitchen with a rich, savory smell. The pasta turns tender while soaking up a smooth beef cream sauce. Every bite is cozy and satisfying. This is the kind of meal you make when you want something easy but still special. It is simple enough for busy days and tasty enough to save for later. If you love creamy ground beef and pasta that feels homemade, this recipe is for you.

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups dry pasta like penne or rotini
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Velveeta style cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain extra fat if needed.
- Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Stir for one minute until the garlic smells fragrant and soft.
- Sprinkle in salt, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir well so the beef is evenly coated.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a light simmer.
- Add the dry pasta to the skillet. Press it down so it is mostly covered by the liquid.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir once or twice so the pasta cooks evenly.
- Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat. Add the cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Turn off the heat and let the pasta rest for two minutes.
Common Mistakes To Avoid

Do not rush the simmer. If the heat is too high, the cream sauce can separate. Keep it gentle. Avoid adding too much pasta without extra liquid. The pasta needs enough sauce to cook properly. Do not skip stirring. A quick stir keeps the pasta from sticking to the pan.
Tips For Success
Use a deep skillet with a lid so everything cooks evenly. Short pasta works best for stovetop creamy ground beef pasta. If the sauce feels thick, add a splash of warm broth or milk. For a richer taste, Velveeta style cheese makes this feel like a Velveeta creamy beef stroganoff skillet.
How To Serve
Serve this creamy beef and pasta hot with a sprinkle of parsley. A simple green salad or steamed veggies work well on the side. You can also pair it with ground beef orzo with tomato for a hearty table.
Flavor Add In Ideas

Add sliced mushrooms for a classic creamy ground beef recipe feel. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat. For a richer twist, stir in a little parmesan for a creamy ground beef alfredo pasta vibe. You can also season the beef with ideas from firecracker ground beef seasoning recipes for extra bold flavor.

Stovetop Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain extra fat if needed.
- Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Stir for one minute until the garlic smells fragrant and soft.
- Sprinkle in salt, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir well so the beef is evenly coated.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a light simmer.
- Add the dry pasta to the skillet. Press it down so it is mostly covered by the liquid.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir once or twice so the pasta cooks evenly.
- Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat. Add the cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Turn off the heat and let the pasta rest for two minutes before serving.
Notes
Make Ahead And Storage
This easy creamy ground beef pasta keeps well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy sauce. The flavors deepen overnight, making it great for meal prep.
FAQs
Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes. Any short pasta works. Just keep it similar in size so it cooks evenly.
Why is my sauce too thick?
The pasta may have absorbed more liquid. Add a little warm broth or milk and stir gently.
Can I make this without cream?
You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be lighter. It will still be a creamy pasta recipes ground beef option.
Conclusion
This stovetop creamy ground beef pasta is simple, cozy, and full of flavor. It is perfect for busy nights and relaxed weekends. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and seasoned beef come together in one pan with very little effort. Save this recipe, share it, and pin it for later. It is one of those meals you will come back to again and again.