Are you looking for a delicious, comforting meal that can be made in just one pot? This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is the perfect solution! It's rich, creamy, and bursting with flavors that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have a hearty dinner on the table in no time. Keep reading to discover how to make this crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
What is One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta?
One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce all cooked together in one pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—everything is cooked in one pot, allowing the pasta to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce while cooking, resulting in a creamy, delicious meal that’s packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients List for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- 1 ½ tablespoon olive oil: This is used to sauté the garlic and onion, adding a rich flavor base to the dish.
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced: Garlic provides a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the beef and tomato sauce.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: The onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 500g/1 lb beef mince/ground beef: Ground beef gives the dish its hearty, meaty flavor. It’s the star of the recipe, providing protein and substance.
- 2 teaspoon Italian herbs: A blend of Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a fragrant, herby note to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste: Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- 400g/14 oz can crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata): These provide the tomato base for the sauce, giving it a rich, slightly tangy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (chilli flakes, optional): For those who like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes add a spicy kick to the dish.
- 1 ½ teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt: Salt is essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a touch of heat and complexity to the flavor profile.
- 4 cups (1 L) chicken stock/broth, low sodium: Chicken stock adds depth to the sauce, and its lower sodium content allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- 350g/12oz fusilli, penne, elbow macaroni, or other short pasta: Choose your favorite short pasta, which will cook perfectly in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
- ¾ cups thickened/heavy cream: The cream adds a luxurious, rich texture to the sauce, making it velvety and creamy.
Serving Ingredients:
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated: A sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds a salty, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy tomato sauce.
- Parsley, finely chopped (optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have available in your pantry. Here are some substitutions and variations you might consider:
- Ground Meat: If you don’t have ground beef or prefer a different protein, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the dish, but all will work beautifully.
- Pasta Types: While short pasta like fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni is ideal, you can use whatever pasta you have on hand. Even long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine can work—just break it into shorter pieces before cooking.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can skip the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add canned beans or lentils for extra protein.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream or a cashew-based cream. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. If you like it spicier, you can add more or even include a dash of hot sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps to make your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, but not browned.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned all over, with no pink remaining. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Herbs and Tomato Paste: Stir in the Italian herbs and tomato paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly, which deepens the flavor of the sauce.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata), followed by the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add the Stock and Pasta: Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, add the pasta and stir to ensure it’s evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid.
- Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the pasta cook in the sauce, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the Cream: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream. This will make the sauce extra creamy and rich. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
How to Cook One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is straightforward, but attention to detail can elevate the dish from good to great. Here’s a more detailed step-by-step guide:
- Prep Your Ingredients: Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready. Mince the garlic, chop the onion, and measure out the other ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and ensures you don’t miss anything.
- Layer the Flavors: Start by sautéing the garlic and onion to create a flavorful base. This step is crucial because it adds depth to the dish. Don’t rush it—let the onions cook slowly until they’re soft and translucent.
- Brown the Meat Properly: When cooking the ground beef, make sure it’s evenly browned. Browning the meat adds a lot of flavor to the dish, so don’t skip this step or remove it from the heat too early.
- Develop the Sauce: Cooking the tomato paste with the beef helps develop a richer, deeper flavor. This step should not be rushed, as the caramelization of the paste adds sweetness and umami to the sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor: Once all the ingredients are in the pot, simmering allows the flavors to meld together. Cooking the pasta in the sauce is key to this recipe—it allows the pasta to soak up all the delicious flavors, making each bite incredibly tasty.
- Finish with Cream: The final addition of cream not only adds richness but also balances the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a perfectly creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe like this, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the Pot: If your pot is too small, the pasta won’t cook evenly. Make sure your pot is large enough to allow the pasta to move around as it cooks.
- Undercooking or Overcooking the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Undercooked pasta will be tough, while overcooked pasta will be mushy. The goal is to achieve a perfect al dente texture.
- Forgetting to Stir: It’s important to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot or clumping together.
- Adding Cream Too Early: The cream should be added at the very end, off the heat. Adding it too early or while the pot is too hot can cause the cream to curdle.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve and present it. A well-presented dish not only looks appealing but also enhances the dining experience.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
- Family Style: Serve the pasta straight from the pot in the middle of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a casual, communal dining atmosphere.
- Individual Bowls: For a more formal presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls. This also allows you to control portion sizes and ensure everyone gets an equal amount of the delicious sauce.
Presentation Ideas for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a vibrant color and a hint of freshness.
- Add Parmesan: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over each serving. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair the pasta with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce. This adds an extra layer of comfort to the meal.
One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe Tips
- Make It Ahead: This pasta reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later: You can also freeze this pasta. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
- Customize It: Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste. Add vegetables, use different herbs, or adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to cook them down longer to achieve the same rich flavor and consistency as canned tomatoes.
Q: Can I use a different type of cream?
A: Yes, you can use half-and-half or even milk, but the sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I add cheese to the sauce?
A: Absolutely! Adding a handful of grated Parmesan or mozzarella to the sauce before serving will make it even creamier and more indulgent.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: The recipe is not gluten-free as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its rich, creamy sauce and hearty beef make it a comforting meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With the tips and variations provided, you can customize it to suit your taste and dietary needs. So why not give it a try tonight? You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal cleanup. Happy cooking!
PrintOne Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe
Indulge in a comforting and easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta. This dish features ground beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with Italian herbs, thickened cream, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one pot. Ideal for busy weeknights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 500g/1 lb beef mince/ground beef
- 2 tsp Italian herbs
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 400g/14 oz can crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 ½ tsp cooking salt/kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups (1 L) chicken stock/broth, low sodium
- 350g/12oz fusilli, penne, elbow macaroni, or other short pasta
- ¾ cups thickened/heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated (for serving)
- Parsley, finely chopped (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in Italian herbs, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Note 1: Italian herbs can be a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- Note 2: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Note 3: Choose short pasta that holds the sauce well, like fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. ¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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