If you’ve been craving a comforting, flavorful, and fuss-free meal, look no further than this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe. It combines the richness of tender ground beef with smooth, luscious tomato sauce and creamy cheese in every bite, all cooked together in one pot for minimal cleanup. This dish feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you want an impressive homemade meal without the hassle.

One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each bringing its own magic to create that unforgettable creamy tomato beef pasta experience. From aromatics to seasoning and the right pasta shape, these components work together to deliver perfect texture, rich flavor, and vibrant color.

1 lb lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a deliciously savory base.
8 oz short pasta (penne or fusilli): Holds sauce beautifully and cooks evenly in one pot.
28 oz can crushed tomatoes: The rich tomato base that gives the dish its signature tang and color.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers an aromatic punch that lifts the entire flavor profile.
1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently smooth and creamy.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty umami that melts into the sauce harmoniously.
2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and enhance all the other ingredients.
Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish): Adds a burst of color and fresh herbaceous brightness.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Onions to Build Flavor

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat and drizzling in a bit of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial as it sets the flavorful foundation for your sauce, allowing the natural sweetness of the onion to develop.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Turn the heat up slightly and add the lean ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook it thoroughly until browned and no longer pink, around 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the beef creates that rich meaty flavor that makes this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe truly satisfying.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for an additional minute until you can smell the garlic’s alluring aroma. These seasonings bring in layers of warmth and complexity that elevate the whole dish.

Step 4: Introduce Tomatoes and Liquid

Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with 2 cups of water or broth to achieve the perfect sauce consistency. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Adding broth instead of water can deepen the flavor, but water works just as well for simplicity’s sake.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Simmer

Once the sauce is boiling, add your pasta directly into the pot and stir well to combine. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and allow the pasta to cook for about 10 to 12 minutes or until it reaches just the right al dente texture. The pasta will soak up the tomato sauce, locking in all those rich flavors.

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This final touch transforms the sauce into a silky, luscious finish that clings lovingly to every pasta piece. Serve your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe hot, with extra cheese and fresh herbs if you like for a fancy flair.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also brings some bright freshness against the creamy, rich sauce. For an extra touch, grate a bit more Parmesan cheese over the top for a salty, cheesy contrast that takes this dish to the next level.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some garlic bread that’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can add color and nutrients, making for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this recipe layered in a deep casserole dish and bake with extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust. Alternatively, plate it in pasta bowls and drizzle with a little olive oil and cracked black pepper for a rustic, Instagram-worthy presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners the next day without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of this pasta for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. When thawed, the sauce may thicken slightly, but a splash of cream or water while reheating will bring it right back to creamy perfection.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Microwaving works too—just heat in short bursts and stir in between to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or fusilli work best for holding sauce, you can experiment with other short pasta shapes like rigatoni or farfalle. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or add extra mushrooms and beans for protein. The sauce will remain creamy and flavorful without the beef.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but heavy cream gives that rich, silky texture that defines this recipe. If using milk, consider adding a little flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

How spicy is this pasta?

This recipe is mild and comforting by default, but you can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking if you enjoy a little heat with your creamy tomato sauce.

Do I need to pre-cook the pasta?

No pre-cooking necessary! That’s the beauty of the One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe—everything cooks together, saving time and dishes, while allowing the pasta to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Final Thoughts

If comfort food had a poster child, this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe would be it. It’s incredibly easy, full of bold flavors, and perfect for any night you want a cozy meal without the fuss. Give it a try and enjoy a creamy, cheesy dinner that your whole family will be asking for again and again.

One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe

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4 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is a delicious and hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining lean ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich creamy tomato sauce, this dish is simple to make and packed with flavor. The use of a single pot minimizes cleanup while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Dairy

1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta

8 oz short pasta (like penne or fusilli)

Vegetables and Herbs

1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)

Pantry Items

28 oz can crushed tomatoes
2 cups water or broth
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil (for sautéing)

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Instructions

Sauté Onions: Heat a large pot over medium heat and drizzle in olive oil. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes, which develops a flavorful base for the sauce.
Brown the Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add the lean ground beef to the pot. Break it apart using a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes, ensuring even cooking and great texture.
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute until the mixture becomes fragrant, enhancing the flavor profile.
Add Tomatoes and Liquid: Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with 2 cups of water or broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil to combine all the flavors thoroughly before adding pasta.
Cook Pasta: Add the short pasta to the pot, stir to combine, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. This method allows the pasta to absorb the tomato sauce directly.
Finish with Cream and Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, use broth instead of water when cooking the pasta.
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter or lactose-free dish.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper at the end to your taste preference.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a bright finish but are optional.
Ensure the pasta is stirred occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American