Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights

This Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights is the ultimate comfort food dish—rich, hearty, and made with simple ingredients I usually have on hand. With tender ground beef, a creamy tomato-based sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this meal is made for those evenings when I want something warm, satisfying, and easy to put together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how comforting and cozy this pasta is, without requiring tons of prep or fancy ingredients. It’s a one-pan kind of dish that fills the kitchen with amazing aromas and always gets empty plates at the table. The creamy beef sauce clings to the pasta in the best way, and I can tweak it depending on what I’m craving—spicier, cheesier, or even loaded with veggies. It’s a family favorite for a reason.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Pasta (penne, fusilli, or any short pasta)

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Tomato paste

• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

• Heavy cream or half-and-half

• Beef broth

• Olive oil or butter

• Italian seasoning

• Paprika (optional for extra flavor)

• Salt and black pepper

• Grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella (optional for topping)

• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. I cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set it aside.

2. While the pasta cooks, I heat a bit of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, then stir in the garlic.

3. I add the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Once cooked through, I drain excess fat if needed.

4. I stir in tomato paste and cook it for a minute to deepen the flavor. Then I add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings.

5. I let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes, then reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. I simmer it a few more minutes until thick and creamy.

6. I fold in the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated. If I’m adding cheese, I mix it in now or sprinkle on top before serving.

7. I finish it off with a sprinkle of parsley or more cheese, and serve it hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or lazy weekend comfort meal.

Variations

• For a spicy kick, I add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

• I sometimes swap the beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.

• I add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini when I want to bulk it up with veggies.

• I use cream cheese instead of heavy cream when I want an extra-rich texture.

• I’ve also made it with gluten-free or whole wheat pasta, and it works just as well.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce and warm it on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors deepen even more after sitting overnight, making this a great next-day lunch.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, I sometimes use whole milk or half-and-half if I want a lighter sauce. It won’t be as rich, but still creamy and delicious.

What pasta shape works best?

I prefer short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni—they hold onto the sauce better. But I’ve made it with spaghetti or fettuccine too when that’s all I had.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I cook everything and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, I reheat it with a bit of liquid to refresh the sauce.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, I freeze it in airtight containers. It reheats well—just thaw overnight and warm it on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

How can I make it extra cheesy?

I stir in shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses right before serving or sprinkle it on top and broil it for a minute or two until bubbly.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights is the kind of dish I turn to when I need a hug in a bowl. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor—everything I want in a satisfying meal. Whether I’m feeding my family or just making something comforting for myself, this pasta always delivers warmth and joy in every bite.

Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights

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Creamy Beef Pasta for Cozy Nights is a rich, hearty, one‑pan comfort dinner with tender ground beef, a creamy tomato‑based sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for family meals or cozy evenings at home.

• Author: Lizaa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American / Italian‑inspired
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or short pasta)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half‑and‑half
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it browns. Cook until no longer pink, then drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes.
6. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream or half‑and‑half. Simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce is rich and creamy.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated. If using cheese, mix it in now or sprinkle on top before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese, then serve hot.

Notes

• Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
• Stir in veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to bulk up the dish.
• Use cream cheese instead of heavy cream for an extra‑rich sauce.
• Try gluten‑free or whole wheat pasta to suit dietary needs.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 660mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg