This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's a deliciously creamy and savory dish with rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and tender pasta. The best part? It’s all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Perfect for busy evenings, this budget-friendly recipe is a family favorite that can be customized to suit dietary preferences.
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)
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.
Sauté the Veggies: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Cook the Pasta: Add 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).
Finish with Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
For gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free pasta.
For dairy-free, replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
Enhance the dish with extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.