If you’re craving comfort food but also don’t want to be chained to a sink full of dishes, this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is about to earn a permanent spot in your regular dinner rotation. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety tomato sauce, studded with juicy ground beef and finished with a decadent swirl of cream and Parmesan. Best of all, the flavors meld together in just one pot, making the whole process irresistibly simple and beyond satisfying. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl — all with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta really lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one brings a unique flavor, texture, or pop of color, and together they create pure weeknight magic. Here’s why each star ingredient earns its place in the pot:
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef for delicious flavor right from the start.
- Ground Beef: The hearty base that gives this dish depth and satisfying texture.
- Yellow Onion: Brings a gentle sweetness and backbone to the sauce.
- Garlic: For that irresistible aromatic punch every pasta dish deserves.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and a Mediterranean vibe.
- Salt & Pepper: Enhances every ingredient so none of the flavors go unnoticed.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle heat that wakes up the sauce without overpowering it.
- Tomato Paste: Gives the dish a concentrated tomato flavor and deep red color.
- Crushed Tomatoes: The main event, creating a lush, tangy sauce.
- Beef Broth: Infuses extra meaty undertones and helps cook the pasta right in the sauce.
- Uncooked Pasta (penne or rotini): Soaks up all the flavors as it cooks — no need to boil separately!
- Heavy Cream: The secret to that luxurious, creamy mouthfeel we all crave.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth and luscious thickness to the sauce.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of green that makes everything pop and adds a fresh finish.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, in goes the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up as it cooks—you want lots of little crumbles! Let the beef brown until no pink remains. This step builds a delicious flavor base for your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta, so don’t rush it. If there’s extra grease, just drain it off.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion to the browned beef and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and translucent. Now, sprinkle in the minced garlic. Stir for about a minute—just until aromatic. The onion and garlic will add sweet depth and an alluring aroma to your tomato sauce foundation.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and (if you like a little tingle) red pepper flakes. Stir in the tomato paste, making sure it’s well mixed throughout the beef and onions. Allow the tomato paste to lightly toast for a minute or so—this brightens the flavor and brings the whole dish together.
Step 4: Build the Sauce and Cook the Pasta
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Give everything a good stir, making sure you scrape the tasty browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Add the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the sauce—this is where the magic of One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta really happens! Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Pop a lid on and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Uncover the pot and lower the heat. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. Stir well and let it simmer, uncovered, for another 2 to 3 minutes. Watch as the sauce turns creamy and dreamy—just thick enough to coat every noodle and morsel of beef. This final step transforms your classic tomato pasta into a silky, comforting treat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, scatter freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top. This simple touch not only makes your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta look gorgeous, it adds a hint of fresh flavor that balances out all the creamy, savory richness.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Garnishes
A good garnish does more than just look pretty—it adds a fresh note to every bite. Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley over your steaming bowl just before eating. You can also add extra grated Parmesan or even a swirl of olive oil for a gourmet finish.
Side Dishes
This deeply flavorful pasta feels complete on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Don’t forget warm, crusty bread—perfect for mopping up every last drop of creamy tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual weeknights, pile spoonfuls straight into bowls. Entertaining? Swirl the pasta in nests on individual plates and garnish with basil leaves. For extra flair, serve your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta in a large family-style serving dish with a big spoon so everyone can help themselves—it’s dinner party magic, no fuss needed.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Store your cooled One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days—the flavors even deepen as it sits, so tomorrow’s lunch is sure to be spectacular.
Freezing
This pasta freezes surprisingly well! Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers. It’ll stay fresh for up to two months. For the best texture when reheating, leave room for a splash of cream or broth to stir in later if the sauce thickens up.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently over low heat on the stove or pop in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth as needed to loosen the sauce. Give it a good stir and sprinkle with a fresh grating of Parmesan to revive all that creamy, dreamy texture you loved on the first night.
FAQs
Can I make One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta—make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as some alternative pastas cook faster than regular wheat varieties.
What other proteins can I use instead of beef?
Ground turkey or chicken both work beautifully if you’re looking for a leaner option. You could even go meatless and add hearty beans or extra veggies for a vegetarian twist.
How can I sneak extra veggies into this dish?
Easy! Just toss in a handful of baby spinach, chopped bell peppers, or even some finely shredded carrots with the pasta—they’ll melt right into the sauce and add a boost of color, nutrition, and flavor.
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Yes, while Parmesan is classic for this recipe, a little Pecorino Romano or even some creamy mozzarella can add unique depth and gooeyness. Just experiment with what’s in your fridge!
What’s the best pasta shape for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta?
Penne and rotini are perfect because they hold onto the sauce with all their nooks and crannies, but honestly, any short pasta shape you love will work in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that’s effortless yet tastes like a big, loving gesture, you can’t go wrong with One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta. One bite and you’ll see why it’s a household favorite—so go on, give it a try, and bring a little comfort and joy to your dinner table tonight!
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: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy this comforting and satisfying One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta that comes together effortlessly in one pot. This hearty dish features tender pasta infused with a rich tomato and beef sauce, finished with a touch of cream and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce and Pasta:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
Finishing Touches:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook Beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Saute Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion and cook until softened, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Season and Add Tomato Paste: Mix in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
- Add Tomatoes and Pasta: Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then stir in the uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil, then simmer until pasta is tender.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until the sauce is thick and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra veggies, stir in spinach or bell peppers with the pasta.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
