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Creamy One Pot Beef Pasta Simple and Satisfying Meal

by on April 2, 2025

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Looking for a meal that’s both creamy and filling? You’ve come to the right place! I’m excited to share my easy recipe for Creamy One Pot Beef Pasta. This dish is quick to make and doesn’t create a lot of dishes to clean up. You’ll find all the ingredients and tips you need right here, so let’s turn your dinner into a cozy, one-pot success! Ready to dive in?

- 1 pound ground beef - 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli) - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices - 3 cups beef broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Large pot or Dutch oven - Wooden spoon - Measuring cups - Measuring spoons - Knife and cutting board - Serving bowls If you want to switch things up, here are some easy swaps: - Ground beef: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. - Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. - Heavy cream: Substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce. - Parmesan cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor. - Diced tomatoes: Swap for fresh tomatoes or a can of tomato sauce if you prefer. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes cooking easier and faster. 2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside for later use. 3. Measure out the pasta, beef broth, and heavy cream. Keep them handy. 1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear. 3. Next, increase the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook it for around 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. If there is too much fat, drain it. 4. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juices, 3 cups of beef broth, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix well and bring it to a gentle simmer. 5. Add 12 ounces of pasta into the pot, making sure it is well mixed. Ensure all pasta is submerged in the broth. 6. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking. The pasta should be firm but tender. 7. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir often until the sauce is thick and creamy. 8. Taste your pasta and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust to your liking. 9. Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. - Always stir the sauce well after adding cream and cheese. This helps mix everything evenly. - Cook on low heat after adding cream. High heat can make it separate. - If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it. When making creamy one pot beef pasta, a few mistakes pop up often. First, don’t skip draining excess fat from the beef. This keeps your dish lighter and tastier. Second, avoid overcooking the pasta. It should be al dente to absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Lastly, don’t forget to stir the pot occasionally. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. You can easily boost the flavor of your dish. Try adding a splash of red wine with the broth. This adds depth and richness. Fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, can brighten the taste. For heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. You can also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Garnishing adds a nice touch to your creamy beef pasta. Fresh parsley is a great choice. It adds color and a fresh taste. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for richness. For a bit of crunch, add toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs. Serve in warm bowls for a cozy feel, making your meal even more inviting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile. Consider adding basil or oregano for an extra layer of taste. Customize Your Pasta: Experiment with different pasta shapes like farfalle or rotini to create a unique texture that holds the sauce well. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of beef broth to revive the creamy texture. {{image_4}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles. Another option is to use lentils. They add great protein and texture. You can also add veggies for color and flavor. Consider using bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. These will blend well with the creamy sauce. While penne or fusilli works great, feel free to try other pasta shapes. Spaghetti or rotini can also work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can fit into this recipe too. These options keep the meal healthy and accessible for all diets. If you want more variety, consider using different proteins. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef. These options are leaner and still tasty. For a fun twist, try shrimp or diced chicken. They will cook quickly and add a fresh flavor to the dish. Experiment with these variations to find your favorite version! To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container well to avoid any odors from other foods. You can freeze creamy one pot beef pasta too. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label each bag with the date. It stays good for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, use a pot on low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the pasta creamy and delicious. Yes, you can use other meats. Ground turkey or chicken works well. These options can be lighter than beef. You can also try venison or pork for a unique taste. Just follow the same steps in the recipe. To add heat, mix in crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a small pinch and taste. You can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce. These ingredients will boost the flavor and spice level. Adjust to fit your taste. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half. Another choice is coconut cream for a dairy-free version. For a healthier twist, try Greek yogurt. Just stir it in at the end to keep the texture creamy. We covered the important ingredients and tools needed for your dish. You learned how to prepare, cook, and get the creamy texture just right. I shared common errors to avoid and tasty ways to enhance flavor. You now know different variations, including vegetarian options. In conclusion, cooking can be fun and simple with the right steps. Enjoy experimenting with your meals, and don't be afraid to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. One-Pot Convenience: This recipe is cooked all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze and allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.
  2. Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
  3. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal fast.
  4. Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to personalize it to your taste.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef

– 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

– 3 cups beef broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Suggested Tools and Equipment

– Large pot or Dutch oven

– Wooden spoon

– Measuring cups

– Measuring spoons

– Knife and cutting board

– Serving bowls

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to switch things up, here are some easy swaps:

– Ground beef: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.

– Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

– Heavy cream: Substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce.

– Parmesan cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor.

– Diced tomatoes: Swap for fresh tomatoes or a can of tomato sauce if you prefer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes cooking easier and faster.

2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside for later use.

3. Measure out the pasta, beef broth, and heavy cream. Keep them handy.

Cooking Process

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

2. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear.

3. Next, increase the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook it for around 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. If there is too much fat, drain it.

4. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juices, 3 cups of beef broth, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix well and bring it to a gentle simmer.

5. Add 12 ounces of pasta into the pot, making sure it is well mixed. Ensure all pasta is submerged in the broth.

6. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking. The pasta should be firm but tender.

7. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir often until the sauce is thick and creamy.

8. Taste your pasta and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust to your liking.

9. Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Achieving Creamy Consistency

– Always stir the sauce well after adding cream and cheese. This helps mix everything evenly.

– Cook on low heat after adding cream. High heat can make it separate.

– If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it.

Tips & Tricks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy one pot beef pasta, a few mistakes pop up often. First, don’t skip draining excess fat from the beef. This keeps your dish lighter and tastier. Second, avoid overcooking the pasta. It should be al dente to absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Lastly, don’t forget to stir the pot occasionally. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Enhancements for Flavor

You can easily boost the flavor of your dish. Try adding a splash of red wine with the broth. This adds depth and richness. Fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, can brighten the taste. For heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. You can also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Garnishing Ideas

Garnishing adds a nice touch to your creamy beef pasta. Fresh parsley is a great choice. It adds color and a fresh taste. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for richness. For a bit of crunch, add toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs. Serve in warm bowls for a cozy feel, making your meal even more inviting.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile. Consider adding basil or oregano for an extra layer of taste.
  2. Customize Your Pasta: Experiment with different pasta shapes like farfalle or rotini to create a unique texture that holds the sauce well.
  3. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
  4. Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of beef broth to revive the creamy texture.

Variations

Vegetarian Options

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles. Another option is to use lentils. They add great protein and texture.

You can also add veggies for color and flavor. Consider using bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. These will blend well with the creamy sauce.

Alternative Pasta Choices

While penne or fusilli works great, feel free to try other pasta shapes. Spaghetti or rotini can also work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.

Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can fit into this recipe too. These options keep the meal healthy and accessible for all diets.

Different Protein Options

If you want more variety, consider using different proteins. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef. These options are leaner and still tasty.

For a fun twist, try shrimp or diced chicken. They will cook quickly and add a fresh flavor to the dish.

Experiment with these variations to find your favorite version!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container well to avoid any odors from other foods.

Freezing Guidelines

You can freeze creamy one pot beef pasta too. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label each bag with the date. It stays good for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, use a pot on low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the pasta creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use other meats. Ground turkey or chicken works well. These options can be lighter than beef. You can also try venison or pork for a unique taste. Just follow the same steps in the recipe.

How can I make it spicier?

To add heat, mix in crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a small pinch and taste. You can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce. These ingredients will boost the flavor and spice level. Adjust to fit your taste.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half. Another choice is coconut cream for a dairy-free version. For a healthier twist, try Greek yogurt. Just stir it in at the end to keep the texture creamy.

We covered the important ingredients and tools needed for your dish. You learned how to prepare, cook, and get the creamy texture just right. I shared common errors to avoid and tasty ways to enhance flavor. You now know different variations, including vegetarian options.

In conclusion, cooking can be fun and simple with the right steps. Enjoy experimenting with your meals, and don’t be afraid to make it your own. Happy cookin

- 1 pound ground beef - 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli) - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices - 3 cups beef broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Large pot or Dutch oven - Wooden spoon - Measuring cups - Measuring spoons - Knife and cutting board - Serving bowls If you want to switch things up, here are some easy swaps: - Ground beef: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. - Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. - Heavy cream: Substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce. - Parmesan cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor. - Diced tomatoes: Swap for fresh tomatoes or a can of tomato sauce if you prefer. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes cooking easier and faster. 2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside for later use. 3. Measure out the pasta, beef broth, and heavy cream. Keep them handy. 1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear. 3. Next, increase the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook it for around 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. If there is too much fat, drain it. 4. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juices, 3 cups of beef broth, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix well and bring it to a gentle simmer. 5. Add 12 ounces of pasta into the pot, making sure it is well mixed. Ensure all pasta is submerged in the broth. 6. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking. The pasta should be firm but tender. 7. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir often until the sauce is thick and creamy. 8. Taste your pasta and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust to your liking. 9. Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. - Always stir the sauce well after adding cream and cheese. This helps mix everything evenly. - Cook on low heat after adding cream. High heat can make it separate. - If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it. When making creamy one pot beef pasta, a few mistakes pop up often. First, don’t skip draining excess fat from the beef. This keeps your dish lighter and tastier. Second, avoid overcooking the pasta. It should be al dente to absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Lastly, don’t forget to stir the pot occasionally. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. You can easily boost the flavor of your dish. Try adding a splash of red wine with the broth. This adds depth and richness. Fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, can brighten the taste. For heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. You can also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Garnishing adds a nice touch to your creamy beef pasta. Fresh parsley is a great choice. It adds color and a fresh taste. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for richness. For a bit of crunch, add toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs. Serve in warm bowls for a cozy feel, making your meal even more inviting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile. Consider adding basil or oregano for an extra layer of taste. Customize Your Pasta: Experiment with different pasta shapes like farfalle or rotini to create a unique texture that holds the sauce well. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of beef broth to revive the creamy texture. {{image_4}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles. Another option is to use lentils. They add great protein and texture. You can also add veggies for color and flavor. Consider using bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. These will blend well with the creamy sauce. While penne or fusilli works great, feel free to try other pasta shapes. Spaghetti or rotini can also work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can fit into this recipe too. These options keep the meal healthy and accessible for all diets. If you want more variety, consider using different proteins. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef. These options are leaner and still tasty. For a fun twist, try shrimp or diced chicken. They will cook quickly and add a fresh flavor to the dish. Experiment with these variations to find your favorite version! To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container well to avoid any odors from other foods. You can freeze creamy one pot beef pasta too. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label each bag with the date. It stays good for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, use a pot on low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the pasta creamy and delicious. Yes, you can use other meats. Ground turkey or chicken works well. These options can be lighter than beef. You can also try venison or pork for a unique taste. Just follow the same steps in the recipe. To add heat, mix in crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a small pinch and taste. You can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce. These ingredients will boost the flavor and spice level. Adjust to fit your taste. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half. Another choice is coconut cream for a dairy-free version. For a healthier twist, try Greek yogurt. Just stir it in at the end to keep the texture creamy. We covered the important ingredients and tools needed for your dish. You learned how to prepare, cook, and get the creamy texture just right. I shared common errors to avoid and tasty ways to enhance flavor. You now know different variations, including vegetarian options. In conclusion, cooking can be fun and simple with the right steps. Enjoy experimenting with your meals, and don't be afraid to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Creamy One Pot Beef Pasta Delight

A delicious and creamy pasta dish cooked in one pot with ground beef, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  • Raise the heat to medium-high and introduce the ground beef to the pot. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. Ensure to drain any excess fat if necessary to maintain a lighter dish.
  • Incorporate the diced tomatoes (including their juices), beef broth, and Italian seasoning into the pot. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the pasta, ensuring it's well mixed into the sauce. Make sure all the pasta is submerged in the flavorful broth.
  • Cover the pot and allow it to cook for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce is rich, creamy, and has thickened slightly.
  • Taste your creation and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed, adjusting it to your preference.
  • Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

For an elegant touch, serve in warm bowls garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Keyword beef, creamy, dinner, one-pot, pasta

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