One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines comfort food with convenience, making it ideal for hectic weeknights. The creamy tomato sauce, paired with savory beef and tender pasta, is both satisfying and quick to prepare. Plus, the one-pot method means less cleanup and more time with your family. It’s a hit even with picky eaters, making it a reliable go-to dish. With minimal ingredients and steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a homemade meal in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté the Veggies: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.

4. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, stir, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender (about 10-12 minutes).

5. Finish with Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Substitutes: Ground turkey or Italian sausage can replace the beef for a different flavor profile.

• Dietary Adjustments: For gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, coconut milk can be used instead of heavy cream.

• Veggie Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the dish with extra vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat by adding a splash of water or milk and microwaving in 30-second intervals. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape that holds sauce well (like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni) will work perfectly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well and provide a lighter option.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for the Parmesan.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Sauté spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers along with the onions and garlic for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Add the cream at the end of cooking and avoid boiling the sauce after it's added to ensure it doesn’t separate.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I use store-bought shredded Parmesan?

For the best results, freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded versions, but both will work.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a little longer or add a splash of pasta water to thicken it.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is a must-try for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect family-friendly meal. Whether you stick to the original recipe or make it your own, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the simplicity, flavor, and comfort of this one-pot meal!