Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta is a comforting, hearty dish that combines savory minced beef with earthy mushrooms and a creamy Parmesan sauce, all tossed with tender pasta. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, offering a rich and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Each bite brings a blend of flavors from the Worcestershire sauce and thyme, making this dish as flavorful as it is easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the recipe for this delicious and creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a household favorite!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta and Sauce:
  • 300g (10 oz) elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 400g (14 oz) minced beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 250g (9 oz) mushrooms (such as cremini or button), sliced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• For Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Vegetables

1. In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced beef and cook, stirring frequently, until browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Stir in the sliced mushrooms, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and any excess liquid has mostly evaporated, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream

1. Pour in the beef broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the pan’s surface.
2. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
3. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 3-4 minutes, thickening slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Pasta

1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy beef and mushroom pasta!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Based on approximately 4 servings

• Calories: ~650 kcal
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Sugar: 3g

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Any pasta shape that holds sauce well, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle, works nicely with this recipe.

Q: Can I make this dish lighter?
A: To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use low-fat milk, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy. You could also use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Q: Can I add extra vegetables?
A: Yes, vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini make great additions. Add them in Step 2 to cook with the mushrooms.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta:

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, garlic, and onions will deliver the best flavor.
2. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Fresh Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce, making it richer and creamier.
3. Simmer the Sauce Gently: Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cream to prevent curdling. Keep the heat on low to achieve a velvety consistency.
4. Customize the Seasoning: For added flavor, try a dash of nutmeg in the sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
5. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente allows it to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.

Freezer: Although cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, you can freeze this pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tip: Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking and maintain the creamy texture. Adding a bit of extra Parmesan can help restore thickness to the sauce.

Conclusion:

Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta is a comforting dish that’s rich in flavor and simple to make, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners. With a satisfying combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and earthy mushrooms in a creamy Parmesan sauce, this meal offers a comforting and filling experience. Perfect for family meals or to impress guests, this pasta dish can be customized to your preferences and is bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a meal that’s both hearty and delicious!