Name: Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta – Comforting Family Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (Choose penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for best sauce-holding capability.); 1 lb ground beef (Opt for 80/20 for rich flavor; can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.); 1 cup heavy cream (For a lighter dish, substitute with half-and-half.); 1 cup beef broth (Low sodium is the healthier choice.); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated cheese enhances the overall flavor.); 2 cloves garlic (Minced; sauté briefly to prevent browning.); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; salt (Adjust to taste.); pepper (Adjust to taste.); fresh parsley (For garnish.)

As the aroma of sautéing garlic wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement. There’s something about pasta that instantly brings comfort, don’t you think? This Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta is a creamy, delectable dish that not only showcases the richness of ground beef and heavy cream but also doubles as a perfect solution for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a dinner that’s both kid-friendly and budget-conscious, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. With its silky sauce and hearty texture, this pasta dish is a standout in the world of comfort food. Are you ready to transform your dinner routine into something truly special?

Why Is This Pasta Dish So Special?

Comforting, Creamy Texture: The sauce is velvety smooth and coats each piece of pasta perfectly.

Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, dinner is served, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and cheesy goodness, even the pickiest eaters won’t resist this dish.

Economically Savvy: Using ground beef and pantry staples, this recipe offers deliciousness without breaking the bank.

Versatile Options: Swap in gluten-free pasta or leaner meats to suit your dietary needs. Serve alongside a fresh salad or some Roasted Veggie Pasta for a complete meal experience!

Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta truly embodies comfort food at its finest, making it a go-to favorite for families.

Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta Ingredients

A delightful recipe that warms hearts!

For the Pasta
• 8 oz pasta – Choose penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for the best sauce-holding capability.

For the Sauce
• 1 lb ground beef – Opt for 80/20 for a rich flavor; ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.
• 1 cup heavy cream – This creates a luxuriously creamy sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter dish.
• 1 cup beef broth – Adds robust flavor; low sodium is the healthier choice.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness; sauté it briefly to prevent browning.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – This brings an extra layer of herby goodness to the mix.

For Serving
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for a balanced dish.
• Fresh parsley – Sprinkling this on top adds color and a fresh touch to each serving.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of your chosen pasta, like penne or fusilli, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 lb of ground beef. Cook it for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet for a cleaner dish, as this will ensure your Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta maintains a delightful flavor profile.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
To the skillet with the cooked ground beef, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring continuously, until the garlic becomes fragrant but hasn’t browned. This step is crucial as it builds a strong aromatic foundation for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze the Skillet
Pour in 1 cup of beef broth into the skillet, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, which helps deepen the overall flavor of the Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cream
Reduce the heat slightly, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Warm the mixture gently for about 2 minutes without reaching a boil, allowing the cream to meld beautifully with the beef and broth. This step creates the luscious, creamy aspect of your sauce that wraps around the pasta.

Step 6: Incorporate the Cheese
Gradually add in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted smoothly into the sauce, typically taking about 2 minutes. Season the sauce with 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, alongside salt and pepper to taste. This adds layers of savory flavor to the Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta.

Step 7: Toss and Serve
Finally, gently toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add in the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness to your delightful dish.

Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta to make it uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy this creamy dish.
Leaner Meat: Choose ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version with less fat but just as much flavor.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance nutrition and add color to your meal.
Extra Creamy: For a richer sauce, stir in some cream cheese or mascarpone cheese along with the heavy cream, creating an even silkier texture.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh basil or oregano during cooking for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra layer of heat, perfect for those who love spicy food!
Cheese Variation: Switch up the cheese by using Gouda or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile that’s still delicious.
Vegan Option: Substitute the meat for lentils or mushrooms and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a plant-based alternative that’s hearty and satisfying.

For even more pasta inspiration, why not try some vibrant Pasta Primavera Bright or delightful Roasted Veggie Pasta? These variations allow you to make each meal special, turning comfort food into a personal culinary experience!

What to Serve with Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta

A delightful meal is just around the corner when you pair this creamy pasta dish with the right sides.

Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, brightening your plate with vibrant flavors and crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and roasted until tender, vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add a hint of sweetness and extra nutrients to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: The light bitterness of steamed broccoli pairs nicely with the creamy sauce, providing a delightful contrast that enhances your overall dining experience.
Sweet Corn: A side of sweet corn on the cob or sautéed corn kernels introduces subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the savory beef flavors of the pasta.
Chardonnay or Merlot: A glass of Chardonnay or Merlot makes a lovely pairing, with the wine’s acidity cutting through the richness of the dish and awakening your taste buds.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a rich note with a silky chocolate mousse, offering a sweet, creamy contrast that leaves everyone satisfied and wanting more.

These delightful pairings will elevate your dinner experience and turn your Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta into a memorable feast!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the pasta remains fresh and ready to reheat.

Freezer: Freeze the pasta in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to restore creaminess and prevent the sauce from thickening too much.

Texture After Freezing: Expect slightly softer pasta post-freezing; using the reserved pasta water can help achieve the perfect consistency when you serve the Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta.

Make Ahead Options

These Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the garlic and measure out the Parmesan cheese up to 3 days in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef, letting it cool before refrigerating it for up to 2 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the beef in a skillet, stir in the beef broth, and follow the remaining steps to finish your creamy sauce. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready in a flash, keeping dinner stress-free and enjoyable!

Expert Tips for Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta

Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water: Adjust the sauce’s thickness by adding the reserved pasta water gradually for the perfect creamy texture.
Beef Variations: Choose wisely: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for richness, or ground turkey/chicken for a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Sautéing Garlic: Be cautious with time: Sauté garlic only until fragrant; avoid browning to keep the sauce’s flavor profile bright and fresh.
Simmering Warmth: Give it time: Let the sauce simmer a bit longer to fully meld flavors, ensuring your Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta is rich and satisfying.
Storing Leftovers: Freeze smartly: If storing, use airtight containers and thaw overnight to retain the best flavor when reheating your delicious pasta.

Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this dish?
I recommend using pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli, as their ridged textures hold the creamy sauce beautifully. This allows each bite to be packed with flavor!

How should I store leftover Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors intact, ensure the pasta is completely cooled before sealing. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to revive the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze this pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely, then thaw it in the fridge overnight before gently reheating on the stove. If the sauce thickens too much during reheating, add a bit of reserved pasta water or broth to restore its creamy texture.

What do I do if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce seems too thick, don’t worry! That’s easily solved by gradually adding the reserved pasta water. Start with a tablespoon at a time until you reach a creamy and smooth consistency that coats your pasta perfectly. This step is crucial for ensuring your Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta is luscious and delectable!

Is this recipe safe for kids or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, this Marry Me Ground Beef Pasta is generally kid-friendly due to its mild flavors. For dietary considerations, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. And for a gluten-free version, simply swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Always check labels to ensure they meet specific dietary needs!

How do I choose ripe ingredients, especially for the meat?
When selecting ground beef, look for meat that’s a vibrant red color with a little marbling, ideally 80/20 for the best flavor balance. Avoid any packages with a grayish hue or excessive liquid, as this indicates less freshness. For herbs like parsley, choose bright green leaves without any browning or wilting for the best garnish.