If you are craving a comforting, hearty dinner with minimal cleanup, look no further than this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe. This dish brings together tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious tomato cream sauce that clings to every bite. It’s straightforward to prepare but packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for your family or dinner guests, this recipe promises a satisfying meal with rich textures and vibrant tastes in just one pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients work harmoniously to create a deliciously balanced dish. Each element plays a vital role, from the savory depth of ground beef to the fresh brightness of herbs and the indulgent creaminess that gives this pasta its signature allure.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The perfect base for browning your beef and bringing a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a savory foundation for the sauce.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and texture to balance the acidity of tomatoes.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant depth and that unmistakable punch of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean herbs.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors across the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little gentle kick, great if you like a touch of spice.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor for richness and depth.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce with a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.
- 3 cups beef broth: Adds savory liquid for cooking pasta and enriching the sauce.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini): Holds sauce beautifully and cooks right in the pot.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and silky.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Lifts the dish with fresh herbal brightness and color.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until nicely browned, breaking it apart so it cooks evenly. This step builds a rich flavor base as the beef caramelizes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it to keep the sauce light but still flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced yellow onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This sauté develops sweet and aromatic layers that complement the robust beef perfectly.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly—this concentrated tomato flavor intensifies the sauce and adds a lovely richness.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes, Broth, and Pasta
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, giving everything a good stir. Then add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot. This one-pot approach saves time and makes sure the pasta soaks up every bit of that delicious sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and the liquid reduces nicely, creating a thick, flavorful base.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes. This last step transforms the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy and perfectly coating every piece of pasta.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of fresh flavor and gorgeous green color, elevating the dish’s presentation and taste. Don’t underestimate how much such simple garnishes can brighten up your meal.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are also fantastic for sopping up every last drop of that creamy tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets or rustic bowls. Top each portion with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. You could even add a few roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for added decadence and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making your next meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, allow the pasta to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. When thawed, the pasta may loosen slightly; reheating helps bring back that creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring in a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce is too thick. Warm it uncovered on medium heat to restore the sauce’s silky consistency without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini work best because they hold the sauce well, you can experiment with fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells. Just keep an eye on cooking time as shapes differ slightly.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Try swapping ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for more fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta, and you’ll have a gluten-free version that tastes just as delicious and comforting.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can brown the meat and sauté the vegetables a day ahead and store them in the fridge. When ready, add the liquid ingredients and pasta and cook the rest fresh. This saves time without compromising flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter but still creamy sauce. Just add it towards the end to avoid curdling.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe is a true weeknight hero—delicious, simple, and totally comforting. Give it a try the next time you want a fuss-free dinner that feels indulgent and satisfying. I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to meals for busy days or whenever you need a cozy food fix.
Print
One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dinner that combines tender ground beef, hearty pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce all cooked together in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers bold Italian flavors with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids and Pasta
- 3 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste: Mix in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Pasta: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s covered by the liquid.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer uncovered for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- For added nutrition, stir in a handful of spinach or chopped bell peppers along with the pasta.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to desired heat level or omit for a milder dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
