Description
Creamy cheesy ground beef pasta skillet delivers comfort on a plate. Hearty ingredients combine for a satisfying meal that will make diners crave seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for richer flavor)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta like penne or rotini)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Carefully drain excess fat using a colander.
- Reduce heat to medium and sauté diced onions and minced garlic in the same skillet until translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate diced tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute spices evenly and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour beef broth into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add uncooked pasta, ensuring it’s completely submerged. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent sticking.
- Once pasta reaches al dente texture and liquid is mostly absorbed, reduce heat to low. Gradually fold in shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream, stirring continuously until sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Customize the meat by swapping ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Choose low-fat cheese and dairy alternatives to reduce overall calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
- Enhance meal prep by doubling the recipe and storing leftovers in airtight containers for quick weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 555 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg