This creamy beef and leek pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together tender beef, caramelized leeks, and a luscious, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests at a weekend gathering. The subtle sweetness of the leeks pairs beautifully with the richness of the beef and cream, all tossed in perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients:
- 300g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
- 300g ground beef (or beef strips)
- 2 large leeks (white and light green parts, sliced thinly)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Method:
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or beef strips) and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Leeks and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Add the sliced leeks and sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened and starting to caramelize. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the beef broth and stir, allowing the leeks to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Beef and Pasta:
- Add the cooked beef back into the skillet, stirring to coat the meat in the creamy leek sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is evenly combined. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve:
- Serve the creamy beef and leek pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired.
Variations & Tips:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative to make a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Leek Alternatives: If you can’t find leeks, onions or shallots can be substituted, but leeks offer a more delicate and sweet flavor.
- Herb Boost: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Cheese Options: If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used for a similar salty and savory taste.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Conclusion:
Creamy beef and leek pasta is a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender beef, flavorful leeks, and a creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that is easy to prepare yet feels indulgent. With simple variations and tips, you can tailor this recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this pasta dish will surely impress!