Description

This best cheesy ground beef pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, combining tender pasta, savory beef, and melty cheese into one easy recipe. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly dinner ideas or a satisfying meal prep option, this dish delivers every time.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion finely chopped

3 garlic cloves minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 can 15 oz tomato sauce

1/2 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente then drain

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and cook ground beef until browned

3. Add onion and cook until soft then add garlic and cook until fragrant

4. Season with salt pepper Italian seasoning paprika and red pepper flakes

5. Stir in tomato paste then add tomato sauce and beef broth and simmer

6. Add heavy cream mozzarella and parmesan and stir until melted

7. Add cooked pasta and toss until coated

8. Top with remaining cheese cover and let melt then garnish with parsley

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture

Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to keep it creamy

Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 520
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 85mg