Indulge in a hearty and comforting meal with this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta. This dish combines tender pasta with flavorful ground beef, all enveloped in a rich and creamy tomato sauce. The best part? It’s all made in a single pot, making both preparation and cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Convenience: Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce means fewer dishes and a quicker meal on the table.
Flavorful: A blend of Italian herbs, garlic, and a touch of cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to every bite.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

Ingredients

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 onion, finely chopped
500g (1 lb) ground beef
2 teaspoons Italian herbs
2 tablespoons tomato paste
400g (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken stock
350g (12 oz) short pasta (such as fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni)
3/4 cup heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, finely grated (for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-based pot over high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; cook for about 1.5 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Cook Beef and Seasonings: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks until no longer pink. Stir in Italian herbs and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to eliminate its raw taste.
Incorporate Liquids and Pasta: Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine, then add the pasta. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
Cook Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to return to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Serve: Remove from heat. Serve the pasta topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 to 5 servings.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat, or omit them entirely for a milder dish.
Cheese Lovers: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese before serving for an extra cheesy experience.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat portions in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, ensure you cook it until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly even after removing from heat.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

Is it possible to freeze this dish?

While you can freeze this pasta, the texture of the cream sauce may change upon reheating. If you plan to freeze, consider omitting the cream and adding it fresh when reheating.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni are ideal as they hold the sauce well.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Incorporate diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is a delightful combination of simplicity and rich flavor. With minimal preparation and cleanup, it’s an excellent choice for busy evenings when you crave a comforting homemade meal. Feel free to customize it to your taste, and enjoy the hearty satisfaction it brings to your table.