Ingredients
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne or fettuccine works well)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter version. You can also use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a less rich sauce.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and basil. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy beef sauce until well coated.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
This dish reminds me of the creamy pasta I often whipped up for weeknight dinners with Marco and Biscuit lounging by the kitchen door, hoping for a taste. It’s all about comfort and joy in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International