One-Pan Creamy Zucchini Beef Pasta

by

Creamy, comforting, and made for summer nights, this one-pan zucchini beef pasta comes together fast with rich flavor and minimal cleanup.

Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 12 oz short pasta, penne or rotini
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 medium zucchini, diced small
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, optional

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a wide, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and lightly golden. This step builds the flavor base for the entire dish.
  2. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully browned. Break the meat into small pieces so it distributes evenly throughout the pasta and sauce.
  3. Stir in the garlic, diced zucchini, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the zucchini begins to soften and release moisture without browning.
  4. Add the pasta and pour in the beef broth. Stir well so the pasta is mostly submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking.
  5. When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, lower the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  6. Let the pasta simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and remove from heat. Rest for one minute before serving warm.

Nutrition Facts
Calories: ~520 per serving
Protein: ~32g
Carbohydrates: ~42g
Fat: ~26g
Fiber: ~3g

Quick Facts

  • One-pan dinner
  • Summer-friendly comfort food
  • Ready in 30 minutes

Tips

  • Dice the zucchini small so it cooks quickly and blends into the sauce instead of watering it down.
  • Keep the heat moderate once the cream is added to avoid splitting the sauce.
  • If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before serving, add a splash of warm broth and stir gently to loosen the sauce.

Variations

  • Lighter Summer Version
    Replace half of the ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or extra zucchini. The vegetables absorb the sauce and keep the dish hearty while making it easier to enjoy on warm evenings.
  • Extra Creamy Comfort
    Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or mascarpone along with the heavy cream. This creates a thicker, silkier sauce that coats the pasta more generously without changing the cooking time. For another rich and satisfying idea, try our One-Pan Chicken Skillet Recipe, creamy, quick, and perfect for busy nights.
  • Spicy Kick
    Add crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder when the garlic is added. This allows the heat to bloom gently in the oil, balancing the creaminess with mild warmth.
  • Cheesy Upgrade
    Stir in shredded mozzarella or provolone at the end, then let the skillet rest for one minute. This helps the cheese melt evenly and adds a subtle cheese pull.
  • Protein Swap
    Use ground turkey instead of beef, cooking it the same way. The result is slightly lighter but still rich and satisfying. If you’re looking for another easy beef dish packed with flavor, our Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a great weeknight option with a totally different twist.

Leave a Comment