Chipotle Creamy Beef Pasta

Chipotle Creamy Beef Pasta is hands down my weeknight hero whenever I crave something bold smoky and utterly comforting. A Tex-Mex twist on classic beef pasta this dish comes together in just half an hour yet tastes like you have simmered all afternoon. Each bite is rich creamy and zippy thanks to the addition of chipotle in adobo which never fails to transform the simple pantry line-up into something special.

The first time I made this pasta was on a rainy Thursday when quick warmth was needed fast. Now I love watching the sauce bubble into the noodles while the kitchen fills with savory spices.

Ingredients

• Macaroni: This pasta hugs onto the sauce and gives the best shape for forkfuls
• Ground beef: Choose 80 or 85 percent lean for extra flavor and tenderness
• Tomato sauce: Look for a rich deep red sauce with minimal added sugar
• Chopped chipotle in adobo: These smoky chiles pack a punch Check the can for whole soft chiles and dice them fine for even heat
• Heavy cream: A splash gives the sauce silky richness and balances the spicy chipotle
• Fresh coriander: Adds brightness and a fresh herbal lift at the end

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Add macaroni and cook until just al dente Stir occasionally for even cooking Drain well and set aside but reserve half a cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce

Brown the Beef:

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat Add ground beef break it into crumbles with a spoon and brown until there is no pink left Around seven minutes Drain off extra fat for a lighter sauce

Build the Sauce:

Reduce the skillet heat to medium and stir in chopped chipotle in adobo Cook one minute to toast the flavors Add tomato sauce bring to a simmer then stir in heavy cream Let everything bubble together for about five minutes until thick creamy and orange-red in color

Combine with Pasta:

Toss the drained macaroni and reserved pasta water into the skillet Fold everything together until the noodles are glossy and coated Taste and adjust seasoning with salt more chipotle or a little more cream if you want it milder

Garnish and Serve:

Chop a handful of fresh coriander Sprinkle over the pan just before serving for color and a pop of fresh taste

There is nothing quite like stirring in the cream at the end and seeing the sauce turn velvety and orange My kids always sneak a bite before it hits the table and to me that is the best memory attached to this dish

Smart Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days If the pasta thickens just add a splash of milk or water when reheating Gently warm on the stove for best results

Ingredient Swaps

Swap macaroni for penne or fusilli if you have them on hand Turkey or plant-based ground meat works beautifully for a lighter version Use sour cream instead of heavy cream for extra tang and less richness

Perfect Pairings

Serve alongside crunchy green salad with lime vinaigrette for a pop of acidity Warm tortillas make a Tex-Mex feast for dipping For a crowd pile into a baking dish top with cheese and broil for bubbly perfection

Tex-Mex Inspiration

Chipotle peppers are iconic in Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking prized for their smoky complex heat They are actually ripe jalapeños smoked until deeply fragrant This dish is a celebration of that flavor paired with familiar creamy comfort

Seasonal Adaptations

Add corn off the cob or diced roasted peppers in summer Toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach during winter for more veggies Sprinkle diced red onion for crunch and color before serving

One of my favorite moments is watching the whole family gather around the skillet drawn in by that irresistible smoky aroma This is a meal that brings everyone to the table without fail

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of pasta works best in this dish?

Macaroni is ideal for absorbing the creamy chipotle tomato sauce, but penne or rotini also work well.

→ How spicy is the chipotle flavor?

It's moderately spicy due to chipotle in adobo. Adjust the amount to your preferred heat level.

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives, or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.

→ How do I create a creamier sauce?

Add extra heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to intensify the silky texture.

→ What garnishes complement this pasta?

Fresh coriander, sliced green onions, or shredded cheese make flavorful and colorful toppings.