30g Protein, Easy Ground Beef Pasta

Every family has their go-to comfort meals, those dishes that evoke a collective sigh of satisfaction at the dinner table. What if I told you one of those dishes could be an Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta that brings the joy of chocolate cake to a family-style feast? Packed with an impressive 30 grams of protein per serving and a creamy, cheesy goodness that clings lovingly to each bite of pasta, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your house. Picture the rich aroma enticing everyone as it simmers on the stove, promising an explosive blend of flavors that’ll have your family asking for seconds.

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Why This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is a Family Favorite

There’s something spectacular about a one-pot meal that marries rich flavors with simplicity, and that’s precisely what this Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta delivers. Not only is it a breeze to whip up—taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish—but it harmonizes the comfort of homemade pasta with the robust taste of well-seasoned beef. The indulgent, gooey cheese melts into each forkful, creating a dish so satisfying you’ll find yourself revisiting it time and time again. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser!

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this cheesy masterpiece, gather the following essentials:

• 14 oz. penne pasta – the perfect shape to catch the meaty, creamy sauce.
• 1.5 lbs. ground beef – lean or regular, depending on your taste.
• ½ tsp. salt – for balancing the flavors.
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning – adds a lovely herby note.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – provides sweetness and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste – for that rich tomato flavor.
• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce – adds umami, making it even more irresistible.
• 1 (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes – gives a chunky texture and freshness.
• ½ cup heavy cream – for an indulgently creamy sauce.
• 1.5 cups shredded Cheddar cheese – the star player that brings in the cheesy goodness!

Let’s Cook

Ready to get this party started? Follow these straightforward steps:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, but reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water just before draining.
2. Return the drained pasta to the pot it was cooked in.
3. Meanwhile, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add in the ground beef. Season with salt and Italian seasoning. Spread out the meat and then cook undisturbed until well-browned underneath, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Break up the meat and stir, cooking until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 3-5 more minutes. Drain off any grease if desired.
5. Stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic into the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
7. Incorporate the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir and cook to heat through for 1-2 minutes.
8. Drizzle in the heavy cream, stirring and cooking for 30 seconds.
9. Toss in the shredded cheese and mix well until fully melted.
10. Finally, add the beef mixture to the cooked pasta in the pot. Stir everything together.
11. Pour in 2-4 tablespoons of the reserved pasta cooking water to make the sauce smoother.
12. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Nutrition Breakdown

For one serving of this comforting dish, you’re looking at approximately 500 calories, with 30 grams of protein, 55 grams of carbs, 25 grams of fat, and 3 grams of fiber. This recipe not only fills you up; it also makes sure you’re getting a hearty dose of protein to fuel your day.

How to Serve It Best

Serving this Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta is a simple affair. Just pile it into bowls, sprinkle with a handful of fresh parsley or additional cheese, and watch the smiles unfold. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlicky bread for a delightful, balanced meal. It’s ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or even casual get-togethers. Don’t forget to bring a little red wine to the table—it’s practically mandatory with a hearty pasta dish!

Smart Reheat Tricks

Leftovers can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. For freezing, it can hold up nicely for up to 3 months—just make sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When it’s time to reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creaminess. Here’s a tip: keep the sauce from drying out by covering it while reheating!

Pro Notes

1. Choose Lean Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor without it being too greasy.
2. Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Adding the starchy pasta water to your sauce creates a silky texture that elevates the dish significantly.
3. Mix Cheeses: For a flavor twist, mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack with your Cheddar for extra gooeyness and a bit of heat.
4. Baking Option: Turn this dish into a baked pasta by transferring it to a baking dish and baking at 350°F for 15-20 minutes after adding an additional layer of cheese on top.
5. Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving brightens the dish beautifully.

Flavor Experiments

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few twists on this classic:

1. Seasonal Twist: In fall, add sautéed zucchini and bell peppers for a seasonal veggie boost.
2. Gourmet Touch: Try substituting beef with ground turkey and mix in some grated Parmesan for a fancy upgrade.
3. Playful Variation: For a kid-friendly twist, mix in some taco seasoning and serve with tortilla chips on the side for crunch.

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: It’s easy to overdo it! Follow package instructions closely; the pasta should be al dente, as it will cook a bit more when mixed with the sauce.
2. Not Draining and Rinsing: If you don’t drain the grease from the cooked beef, your dish could end up being excessively oily.
3. Skipping the Seasoning: Be generous with those spices—otherwise, you may end up with a bland dish.
4. Neglecting to Reserve Pasta Water: Forgetting this crucial step means you risk ending up with a thick, dry sauce!
5. Ignoring Temperature Control: Cooking at a too-high temperature can lead to burnt bits—then you’ll be fighting with the flavors instead of enjoying them.

Creative Second-Day Ideas

Got leftovers? Try these:

1. Pasta Bake: Transform your leftovers into a baked pasta by layering it in a casserole dish, topping with more cheese, and baking until bubbly.
2. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with the pasta and bake for a fresh take on your meal.
3. Cheesy Beef Pasta Quesadillas: Spread the mixture between tortillas, grill until crispy, and serve with salsa for a fun quesadilla night.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape you have on hand will work. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Is this dish freezer-friendly? Yes, it freezes well! Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
• Can I make this vegetarian? Definitely! Substitute the beef for your favorite plant-based protein and add more veggies for texture.

So there you have it, your trusty roadmap to a delightful Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta night. Trust me, it’ll be your new family meal MVP!