Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
  • 1 tbsp (14g) olive oil
  • ½ cup (60g) yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves (9g) garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp (5g) salt
  • ½ tsp (2g) black pepper
  • 1 tsp (2g) dried Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups (250g) penne or bowtie pasta
  • 3 cups (710ml) beef broth
  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp (1g) red pepper flakes

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and spread it in an even layer.
  2. Let the beef sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until it develops a deep mahogany crust.
  3. Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
  4. Stir in the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring the meat is fully browned.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Stir in the uncooked pasta.
  7. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking until pasta is al dente.
  8. Turn the heat to low. Stir in the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream.
  9. Whisk gently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is ivory-colored and velvety.
  10. Fold in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes until the sauce is glossy and thick. Remove from heat immediately.