Looking for a meal that delivers comfort, hearty flavor, and creamy richness — all with minimal fuss and just one pot to clean? This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is the answer you’ve been wishing for! Perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you crave something savory and soul-soothing, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. Each bite features tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious tomato cream sauce, making it the kind of dinner everyone races to the table for. Prepare to fall in love with the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s brimming with nostalgia and irresistible Italian-American flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of pantry staples, a touch of dairy, and some fresh herbs to bring this dish to life. Each ingredient pulls its weight, building up the rich texture and bold flavors that make One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta a comfort classic.
- Olive Oil: Creates a flavorful base and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- Ground Beef: The star protein, giving the dish hearty substance and savory depth.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and aromatic intensity to the sauce.
- Garlic: Delivers that warm, savory kick you expect in pasta dishes.
- Italian Seasoning: Balances every bite with classic herbs like oregano and basil.
- Salt: Brings out the best in all the other flavors.
- Black Pepper: Offers gentle heat and depth.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like a little spice with their creamy pasta.
- Marinara Sauce: The rich tomato base makes everything saucy and satisfying—try fire-roasted for extra depth.
- Beef Broth: Infuses the pasta with meaty flavor as it cooks directly in the pot.
- Short Pasta (penne, rotini, or similar): Holds the sauce perfectly and ensures a satisfying bite in every forkful.
- Heavy Cream: Transforms the tomato sauce into a decadent, dreamy coating for the pasta.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts in, giving the pasta its signature stretchy, creamy consistency.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharpness and authentic Italian flavor, both in the sauce and as a topping.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: Brings a burst of vibrant color and herby freshness right before serving.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onion
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet on medium-high. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until it’s nicely browned—about 5 to 6 minutes. If you see extra grease, go ahead and drain it off. Next, toss in your diced onion and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and releases its wonderful aroma.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for a little heat. Let everything cook for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! This is where those classic Italian flavors start building depth in your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta.
Step 3: Simmer with Sauce and Pasta
Pour in your marinara sauce and beef broth, then add your short pasta. Stir well, making sure all the noodles are nestled in the liquid. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, then dial the heat down to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring every so often, until your pasta is al dente and the flavors have mingled beautifully.
Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until everything is melted and the sauce becomes gorgeously creamy and smooth. This is the magical moment when the tomato and cream blend into pure, velvety perfection for your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta.
Step 5: Taste, Adjust, and Garnish
Give the pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top for a final burst of color and flavor. Your comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious pasta is ready to enjoy straight from the pot!
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Garnishes
This pasta absolutely shines with a finishing touch of fresh herbs. Sprinkle plenty of chopped basil or parsley over each dish for a pop of green and a fragrant lift. If you’re like me and love a little extra cheese, don’t hesitate to add another shower of grated Parmesan right before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for balance. Of course, warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette is always welcome to mop up every last trace of that creamy tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, serve the pasta in a big, beautiful dutch oven or wide casserole dish—let everyone help themselves! You can also scoop it into individual shallow bowls with a nest of herbs on top for a cozy, restaurant-style feel. For a kid-friendly twist, try layering the pasta in mason jars for portable (and adorable) portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard not to polish off the whole pot!), simply let the pasta cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ready for speedy lunches or dinners all over again.
Freezing
This dish actually freezes quite well, making it perfect for meal prepping ahead. Place cooled One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Store it for up to 3 months. When you’re planning to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your pasta gently on the stove over medium-low, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems a bit thick. You can also microwave leftovers in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. The flavors tend to deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as dreamy as the first day!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage are all fantastic alternatives. Just be sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding the other ingredients for consistent flavor and texture in your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, whole milk or half-and-half make a good substitute—the sauce might be a touch less rich, but it’ll still come together creamy and delicious.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free short pasta. Keep in mind that some gluten-free pastas might cook a bit faster, so start checking for doneness a little early.
How can I add more vegetables?
This pasta is totally versatile! You can add diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini with the onions, or stir in some peas or chopped kale near the end of cooking for even more color and nutrition.
Is this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta spicy?
It’s only as spicy as you want it to be! The crushed red pepper flakes are optional, letting you customize the heat level for your family. Omit them for a mild version, or increase for a spicier kick.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta—whether you’re making dinner for your family or sharing with friends, you’re sure to create happy memories (and maybe, a new tradition). Give it a go, and don’t be surprised if it disappears faster than you expected!
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One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together easily in just one pot. Tender pasta is cooked in a creamy tomato sauce with seasoned ground beef, topped with gooey cheese, and finished with fresh herbs for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 12 ounces short pasta (penne, rotini, or similar)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in marinara sauce and beef broth, then add pasta. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use fire-roasted marinara sauce and top with additional Parmesan before serving.
- This dish reheats well for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
