Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal solution that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further! Ground beef and pasta are a match made in heaven, and when combined with a variety of flavors and ingredients, can result in a wide range of tasty and satisfying dishes. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 easy ground beef pasta recipes that are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
From classic spaghetti with ground beef and marinara to creamy stroganoff pasta and cheesy casseroles, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to mix things up with some international flair, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 18 flavorful dishes, providing you with all the ingredients and instructions you need to get started. So grab your ground beef, pasta, and favorite seasonings, and let’s get cooking!
Classic Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Marinara
Classic Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Marinara Recipe
This timeless Italian-American favorite combines tender spaghetti, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce for a comforting meal that’s easy to make and pleasing to the palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and dried oregano; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and meat sauce; add reserved pasta water if needed for a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender ground beef, savory sauce, and al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Pour in heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta and beef mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole
A comforting classic that’s easy to make and pleases the whole family, this casserole combines ground beef, pasta shells, and a rich cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked pasta shells
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. Brown ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, and dried oregano. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta shells and ground beef mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Ground Beef Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this easy and satisfying one-pot dish that combines the richness of ground beef and macaroni with a velvety cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, tomato paste, and dried basil to the pot. Stir until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beefy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake
A hearty and flavorful pasta bake that combines ground beef, fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup freshly chopped basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, basil, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a large baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and satisfying – perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in butter, chicken broth, and oregano; bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the ground beef mixture; stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Mushroom Pasta Toss
A hearty and satisfying pasta dish that combines ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, and a hint of Italian seasoning. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and reserved pasta water. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta and meat mixture. Toss to combine, adding Parmesan cheese to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Taco Pasta with Ground Beef
A flavorful twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with the comfort of a hearty pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g. penne or rotini)
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add canned diced tomatoes to the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, and shredded cheese; stir until cheese is melted.
7. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Lasagna with Ricotta Filling
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef and ricotta cheese with layers of pasta and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Stir in tomato sauce; set aside.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Assemble the lasagna by spreading meat sauce on bottom of 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by layer of noodles, then ricotta mixture, and finally mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat layers two more times; top with mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Pasta Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavors of beef, broccoli, and pasta for a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked pasta with beef and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with Peas
This classic comfort food dish combines tender ground beef, succulent peas, and a rich Alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a bed of pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 cups frozen peas
– 1/4 cup butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add peas, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until peas are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with ground beef and pea mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef Arrabbiata Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy ground beef with the classic Italian sauce arrabbiata, served over al dente pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer while pasta cooks. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve cooked spaghetti with spicy ground beef arrabbiata sauce, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Ground Beef Pasta with Black Beans
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this hearty pasta dish combining ground beef, black beans, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and cooked black beans. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the beef mixture. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef Pasta Primavera with Vegetables
This recipe is a hearty and flavorful twist on the classic pasta primavera dish, featuring ground beef, mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and basil. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Pasta
Get ready for a comforting twist on the classic Hamburger Helper recipe! This homemade version is easy to make and packed with cheesy, beefy goodness. Say goodbye to the box mix and hello to a pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef Carbonara with Egg Yolk Sauce
A creamy, savory pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 large egg yolks
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and black pepper.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together egg yolks in a small bowl. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring 1 tablespoon of hot pasta water into the eggs while whisking constantly.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with ground beef mixture; toss until coated.
7. Pour egg yolk sauce over the pasta and toss until creamy, adding more pasta water if needed.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sloppy Joe Pasta with Ground Beef
A hearty and flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes, this Sloppy Joe Pasta combines tender ground beef with a rich tomato-based sauce, all wrapped up in al dente noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, macaroni)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta and Sloppy Joe sauce in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Mozzarella
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser, this baked ziti recipe combines ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup ziti pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta and tomato sauce mixture. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 easy and flavorful ground beef recipes! From classic spaghetti to creamy stroganoff, cheesy casseroles to zesty taco pasta, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection. Try a hearty lasagna, a quick stir-fry, or a comforting baked ziti – each dish is packed with tender ground beef and savory flavors. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
