One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

When you’re racing against the clock, but you still want a dinner that tastes like it simmered all day, let me introduce you to the magic of One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta. Not only can this dish boast a hearty 30 grams of protein per serving, but its rich, velvety sauce clings to the pasta beautifully, creating a meal that pleases every palate. Plus, the aroma of garlic and tomatoes wafting through your kitchen? Pure bliss.

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Why This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is a Family Favorite

There’s no denying that one-pot meals have a special place in our hearts, and this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta proves why they’re beloved by families everywhere. With the ease of cleanup and the ability to pack in flavor and nutrition in one dish, you’ll wonder why you haven’t whipped this up before. It’s comfort food at its finest, offering sumptuous flavors while being genuinely effortless to make. Trust me, this dish is about to become your kitchen’s secret weapon.

The Essentials

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, comforting delight:

• 1 1/2 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)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 1/2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups (1 L) chicken stock/broth, low sodium
• 350g/12 oz fusilli, penne, elbow macaroni or other short pasta
• 3/4 cups thickened/heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, finely grated (for serving)
• Parsley, finely chopped (optional, for serving)

Let’s Cook

Ready to put this meal on the table? Here’s how to do it, step by step:

1. Heat the oil on high heat in a large heavy-based pot. Cook garlic and onion for 1 1/2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add beef and cook, breaking it up as you go, until you can no longer see red meat. Add the Italian herbs and cook for 30 seconds, then add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir, then add the pasta.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
5. Add cream and simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, until creamy.
6. Remove from heat, stir well, and ladle into bowls for serving.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for that restaurant touch.

Nutrition Breakdown

A serving of this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta (approximately 1 cup) contains about 560 calories, 30 grams of protein, 70 grams of carbohydrates, 20 grams of fat, and 4 grams of fiber. It’s a balanced meal that can satisfy hungry bellies while packing in nutrients, promising both flavor and fullness.

Perfect Pairings

When presenting this dish, think about the sides that enhance its rich flavor. A simple green salad with a zingy vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully, while garlic bread is a go-to choice for mopping up that luscious sauce. You might even consider a seasonal fruit bowl for a refreshing finish.

How to Store It Right

Should you have leftovers (which is a good problem to have), you can store this dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, pop it into the freezer, where it’ll be good for 2–3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to bring back some of that creamy goodness.

Pro Tips

Here are some expert tips to elevate your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta:

• For extra creaminess, replace half of the cream with cream cheese or mascarpone.
• Browning the beef well before adding other ingredients enhances the overall flavor.
• For added texture, mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach just before serving.
• A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a lovely contrast to the richness.
• Don’t skip on Parmesan at the end—its salty, nutty flavor is what takes this dish from good to great!

Flavor Experiments

Feel like mixing things up a bit? Here are a few variations to consider:

• Seasonal Twist: Add in fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes for a springtime feel.
• Gourmet Variation: Swap out the ground beef for Italian sausage, and garnish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a touch of luxury.
• Playful Option: Stir in some chopped black olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist, which adds a layer of intrigue.

Learn from My Mistakes

Avoid these common pitfalls while making this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta:

• Too Much Liquid: If your sauce turns out too soupy, let it simmer a little longer without the lid to thicken it up.
• Medicinal-Garlic: Adding crushed garlic too late can lead to a raw taste; ensure it gets sufficient cooking time.
• Overcrowded Beef: Not breaking up the beef well enough can lead to clumps, impacting texture; keep moving it as it cooks.
• Under-seasoning: Always taste and adjust the salt before serving; each brand of tomatoes can vary in sweetness.
• Pasta Overcooking: Stir periodically during the simmer to ensure even cooking and avoid mushy pasta.

What to Do with Leftovers

Here are a couple of creative ways to use your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta leftovers:

• Pasta Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a quick pasta casserole.
• Stuffed Peppers: Mix the leftover pasta with some extra cheese, stuff into halved bell peppers, and bake until the peppers are tender.
• Creamy Soup: Blend with some additional broth for a warm, velvety soup—perfect for a chilly day!

Curious Cooks Ask

Here are some common questions about One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta, answered:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for a leaner alternative, giving you a different flavor profile.
• What can I add for extra vegetables? You can easily include mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini; just sauté them along with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
• Is it okay to make this ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish in advance; simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a touch of broth if necessary to restore creaminess.
• Can I make it without cream? Yes, you can replace the cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use more broth with a sprinkle of cheese for creaminess without the calories.