Name: One pot creamy tomato beef pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); 1 onion (finely chopped); 500 g beef mince (/ ground beef); 2 tsp Italian herbs ((store-bought mix)); 2 tbsp tomato paste; 400 g crushed tomatoes ((or tomato passata)); 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes ((optional)); 1.5 tsp cooking salt ((kosher salt)); 0.5 tsp black pepper; 4 cups chicken stock ((low sodium)); 350 g pasta ((fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni)); 0.75 cups thickened cream; Parmesan cheese (finely grated); Parsley (finely chopped, optional)

Introduction to One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

When you're juggling work, social life, and maybe even a few hobbies, spending hours in the kitchen can feel daunting. That’s where one pot cooking becomes your best friend! Imagine serving a delicious, comforting dish without the hassle of multiple pots and pans to clean. This is the beauty of our One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta. With just one pot, you can create a rich and flavorful meal that delights both your taste buds and your schedule.

Why will you love one pot cooking? For starters, it simplifies the cooking process. Less prep means more time for you to relax, maybe catch up on your favorite show or take that well-deserved bubble bath. Plus, all the ingredients meld together beautifully, allowing the pasta to absorb every drop of that creamy tomato sauce. And let's be honest—who can resist that creamy goodness?

To dive deeper into the world of one pot dishes, check out our One Pot Pasta recipe collection. You might just discover a new family favorite! So, let’s get into how to whip up this delectable meal, shall we?

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

Cooking shouldn't be a hassle, and that's the beauty of this one pot creamy tomato beef pasta recipe! You'll need some simple yet flavorful ingredients to whip up this comforting dish. Here’s what to gather:

Olive Oil (1 ½ tbsp): This is perfect for sautéing your veggies and beef while adding a rich flavor.
Garlic Cloves (2, minced): Because every great dish needs that aromatic garlic touch!
Onion (1, chopped): Offers sweetness and depth to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Ground Beef (500g / 1 lb): The star protein! Choose lean to keep it healthier.
Italian Herbs (2 tsp): A mix that brings those classic flavors—oregano, basil, and parsley work well.
Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): For a richer tomato taste that deepens the flavor profile.
Crushed Tomatoes (400g / 14 oz): Use canned or passata for convenience.
Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional): Add a kick if you like a bit of heat!
Cooking Salt and Black Pepper: Essentials to season and enhance the dish.
Chicken Stock (4 cups / 1 L): Using broth instead of water infuses more flavor.
Pasta (350g / 12 oz): Any short shape like fusilli or penne will do!
Heavy Cream (¾ cup): This is what makes it creamy!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to a delightful meal that embodies the essence of comfort food! Want to know more about the nutritional benefits of these ingredients? Check out Healthline for insights into the health benefits of tomatoes and lean beef.

Preparing One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

When you think about comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it's a hearty plate of pasta loaded with flavor. This one pot creamy tomato beef pasta recipe simplifies your cooking process, combining everything in just one pot, which means fewer dishes to clean up afterward—and who doesn’t love that?

Sautéing Garlic and Onion

To kick things off, heat 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-based pot over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in two finely minced garlic cloves and one finely chopped onion. Sauté the mixture for about 1.5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic. This step builds a savory base that will set the stage for the delicious flavors to come.

Browning the Beef

Next up, it’s time to add 500g (1 lb) of beef mince. Break it apart as it cooks, stirring occasionally until no pink remains. This process usually takes around 5-7 minutes. The browning of the beef not only enhances its flavor, but it also contributes to the dish's overall depth. Don’t forget to season it with 2 teaspoons of Italian herbs for that classic touch!

Adding the Italian Flavor

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and let it cook for about a minute. This will help to deepen the tomato flavor and remove any raw taste. Then, toss in your favorite Italian herbs, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy, along with salt and black pepper. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to match your taste!

Mixing in the Essential Ingredients

Once the beef is browned and seasoned, it’s time to introduce the heroes of our dish: a 400g can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of low-sodium chicken stock. Give it a good stir, allowing all the ingredients to mingle. Then add 350g of your choice of short pasta—whether it's fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni, they will all work wonderfully here.

Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

Bring your pot to a gentle simmer, stirring every couple of minutes to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom. After about 15 minutes, your pasta should be al dente, absorbing all those beautiful flavors of the creamy tomato beef pasta sauce.

Making It Creamy

Here comes the magic moment. Stir in ¾ cup of heavy cream and let it simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes. You want your sauce to remain rich and slightly saucy—perfect for a comforting finish. The cream brings all the flavors together and makes every bite irresistibly smooth.

Serving with Flair

Finally, ladle your delicious creation into bowls, and top with finely grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor. Enjoy your meal with a side salad or garlic bread, and relish in the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal that’s sure to impress!

For more pasta inspiration, check out this Italian pasta guide for ideas to keep those culinary adventures rolling! Happy cooking!

Variations on One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

Veggie-packed creamy tomato pasta

Want to elevate your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta? Add a colorful array of vegetables! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be sautéed with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor. If you're a fan of greens, toss in some baby spinach just before serving; its delicate texture adds a lovely touch. You’ll not only make the dish heartier but also sneak in some healthy goodness for your meals.

Spicy version with red pepper flakes

If you're after a kick, consider spicing up your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta with red pepper flakes. Adding just a sprinkle can transform your dish, giving it that extra zing. Feeling adventurous? Try a dash of hot sauce or even diced jalapeños for a bolder flavor blast! Perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.

Explore more pasta variations to keep your dinners exciting—your taste buds will thank you!

Cooking tips for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

Making one pot creamy tomato beef pasta is a delightful and straightforward experience! Here are some tips to enhance your cooking journey:

Prep Ahead: Chop your onions and garlic beforehand to streamline the cooking process. A minute saved in prep can make your weeknight cooking feel less rushed.
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality beef and canned tomatoes for the best flavor. You might even consider brands like San Marzano tomatoes for an authentic taste.
Stir Often: As the pasta cooks, give it a stir every few minutes. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Adapt: Feel free to customize with vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. They add nutritional value and flavor!
Garnish: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and parsley elevates the dish beautifully. Don’t skip this step!

With these tips, you'll whip up a delicious pot of creamy pasta that’s perfect for any night. Happy cooking! For more pasta inspirations, check our One Pot Pasta recipe collection.

Serving suggestions for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

When it comes to enjoying your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta, a few thoughtful serving suggestions can elevate the experience. Here are some ideas:

Toppings Galore: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a delightful creamy texture. For a burst of color and freshness, sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the top.
Pair it Right: Serve your pasta alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. This balance of flavors complements the richness of the creamy sauce.
Bread to Dip: A warm crusty baguette or garlic bread makes the perfect companion for dipping into the heavenly sauce.
Flavor Boost: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over each serving for a hint of fruitiness and depth.

These simple garnishes and pairings can turn your pasta dish into a memorable meal! Enjoy it with your favorite beverage, perhaps a crisp sparkling water or a refreshing iced tea for a delightful balance.

Time Breakdown for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

Preparation Time

Getting started on your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta is a breeze! Set aside about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep everything—chopping onions, mincing garlic, and measuring spices. Your future self will thank you for this head start!

Cooking Time

Once you've prepped, the magic happens quickly! The actual cooking takes around 20 minutes. That’s just enough time to make the house smell incredible while you whip up a comforting meal in no time.

Total Time

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delightful pot of creamy goodness ready to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends with minimal fuss. Enjoy every delicious bite!

For a rich resource on pasta dishes, check out this collection, where you can find other quick and delightful meals to try.

Nutritional Facts for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

Calories per serving

This delicious one pot creamy tomato beef pasta packs a satisfying 610 calories per serving. It’s a hearty meal that balances indulgence with nourishment, making it perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day.

Protein content

With 35 grams of protein in every serving, this dish provides a substantial boost to help keep you feeling full and energized. Whether you’re hitting the gym or just need to keep up with a busy lifestyle, you can count on this pasta to keep you fueled.

Sodium level

The sodium content is around 988 mg per serving, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your intake if you’re watching your salt levels. You can even adjust the seasoning in the recipe to suit your preferences for a more personalized flavor profile.

If you want to dive deeper into the healthy aspects of this meal, consider exploring resources like the USDA Food Data Central for more nutritional insights. Enjoy this comforting dish while taking care of your nutritional needs!

FAQs about One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While this one pot creamy tomato beef pasta recipe calls for short pasta like fusilli or penne, feel free to swap it with your favorite shapes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time; different pasta types can vary in how long they take to cook. Whole grain or gluten-free options work too!

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

Use lean ground beef, or substitute with turkey or plant-based ground meat.
Increase the veggie content by adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Opt for low-fat cream alternatives or a splash of unsweetened almond milk to reduce calories.

These tweaks can help maintain the delicious flavors while enhancing the nutritional profile!

What should I do with leftovers?

If you have any leftovers from your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This dish reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave, making it a perfect meal prep candidate for those busy weeknights. Just add a splash of broth if it seems dry upon reheating!

Conclusion on One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

In summary, this one pot creamy tomato beef pasta is a fantastic option for a quick, satisfying meal. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it saves time without sacrificing taste. Ideal for busy evenings, it offers comfort and convenience in every bite! Try it for your next dinner!

For more delicious meal inspirations, check out these one-pot recipes that the whole family will love!