One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

One pot creamy tomato beef pasta is a lifesaver when you need dinner fast. This simple, hearty meal combines ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato cream sauce all in one pot. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknight cooking feel effortless.

I still remember the first time I made this recipe on a hectic Wednesday evening. The kids were hungry, I was exhausted, and the thought of dealing with multiple pots and pans felt overwhelming. That’s when I discovered the magic of one pot pasta. The way the pasta absorbs all those beautiful flavors while cooking in the sauce creates something truly special. This one pot creamy tomato beef pasta has since become a go-to family dinner, especially on those nights when everyone needs comfort food but nobody wants to tackle a mountain of dishes. The creamy tomato sauce clings perfectly to every piece of pasta, and the seasoned ground beef adds that satisfying protein punch families crave.

What You’ll Need for This Creamy Pasta

I always recommend using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-shredded kind. The flavor difference is incredible, and it melts so much better into the sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 85/15 for the best flavor without too much grease)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2.5 cups beef broth (low sodium gives you better control over seasoning)
• 1 pound pasta, penne or rigatoni work best
• 1 cup heavy cream (whole milk can work in a pinch, but won’t be as rich)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Pro tip: Penne and rigatoni are my top choices because their tubular shape catches all that creamy sauce beautifully. Farfalle (bow tie pasta) also works wonderfully if that’s what you have on hand.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

I recommend having all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking. This recipe moves quickly once you begin. Here’s how to make this easy one pot pasta:

Step 1: Brown the ground beef in a large pot (at least 5-6 quarts) over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want it nicely browned with some caramelization for maximum flavor. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.

Step 2: Add the diced onions to the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Watch carefully so the garlic doesn’t burn, as it can turn bitter quickly.

Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring well to combine everything. The mixture should be bubbling gently.

Step 4: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot, pressing it down gently so most pieces are covered by the liquid. It’s okay if some pieces stick up initially. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer.

Step 5: Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. The pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed. If it looks dry before the pasta is done, add a splash more broth, about 1/4 cup at a time.

Step 6: Once the pasta reaches al dente, remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely and creates a smooth, creamy sauce. The residual heat will do the work.

Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start conservatively since the Parmesan adds saltiness. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves before serving.

Best Sides for Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

This one pot creamy tomato beef pasta pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides that balance the richness.

Garlic Bread: Crusty, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that creamy tomato sauce. The crispy texture contrasts nicely with the tender pasta.

Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds freshness to your plate.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or green beans add color, nutrition, and a slightly charred flavor that complements the creamy pasta perfectly.

Caesar Salad: The tangy, garlicky dressing and crunchy romaine provide textural contrast while the Parmesan ties the flavors together.

More Hearty One Pot Dinners Your Family Will Love

If you love the simplicity of this one pot creamy tomato beef pasta, there are plenty of other comforting one pot meals that bring the same easy cleanup and big flavor to your dinner table. For another satisfying beef pasta option, try the Loaded Beef Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta that combines all those classic burger flavors in one pot, or the Creamy Paprika Steak Shells for a rich, slightly spicy twist on creamy pasta.

When you’re craving something with a different protein but the same cozy vibe, the Best Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta makes weeknight cooking even easier with pre-cooked chicken, while the Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac Cheese delivers sweet and savory flavors kids absolutely love. These recipes prove that delicious, filling dinners don’t have to mean hours in the kitchen or piles of dirty dishes.

Storing Your Creamy Beef Pasta

This one pot creamy tomato beef pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. The pasta will thicken as it sits, which is totally normal.

When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. The microwave works too, but stir every 30 seconds for even heating.

Pro tip: I don’t recommend freezing this dish because cream-based sauces can separate and become grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of cooking.

Common Questions About One Pot Pasta

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