One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta

This creamy beef pasta is my secret weapon for those busy weeknights when everyone wants something rich and comforting but I do not want a pile of dishes later. The whole thing comes together in one pot and tastes like it simmered for hours, even though it is ready in barely over half an hour.

I threw this together the first time when we were late coming home from soccer practice My kids love how creamy and cheesy it is and there is no negotiating about leftovers

Ingredients

• Olive oil or avocado oil: Makes it easy to sauté aromatics and adds healthy fat Choose a fresh bottle for best flavor
• Onion diced: Builds the flavor base of the sauce Small yellow or sweet onions work well
• Garlic cloves minced: Adds deep savory aroma Use firm unblemished cloves
• Ground beef 90 percent lean: Provides protein and richness Look for freshly ground or high quality meat for best results
• Italian seasoning: Infuses the whole dish with herby warmth
• Salt: Brings out all the flavors Use kosher or fine sea salt for more even seasoning
• Black pepper: Lends just enough spice and complexity
• Red pepper flakes optional: Offers a bit of heat Skip or use more based on your family’s preference
• Beef broth: Deepens the flavor and helps cook the pasta Low sodium if you want more control over saltiness
• Crushed tomatoes San Marzano recommended: Brings bright acidity and underlying sweetness Look for whole tomatoes and crush by hand for more flavor
• Pasta fusilli rotini or other short shapes: Holds the creamy sauce in every crevice Good quality pasta cooks up perfectly in one pot
• Heavy cream: Adds silkiness and helps create the luscious sauce Use real heavy cream for the richest taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives salty nutty flavor and makes the sauce extra creamy Freshly grated melts in best

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Cook onions and garlic in olive oil over medium high heat for about five minutes until softened and fragrant This creates the base layer of flavor for the pasta

Brown the Beef:

Add the ground beef Season with Italian seasoning salt black pepper and red pepper flakes Stir and break up the meat with a wooden spoon Cook until the beef is no longer pink and just starting to brown This adds savory depth to the finished dish

Simmer the Sauce:

Pour in beef broth followed by crushed tomatoes Stir everything together Increase heat to bring the sauce to a gentle simmer This ensures the pasta will cook evenly and absorb the flavors

Cook the Pasta:

Add pasta to the pot Stir well and reduce the heat to medium Cover and cook for nine to twelve minutes stirring every few minutes so nothing sticks Cook until pasta is just al dente and most liquid has been absorbed

Finish Creamy Sauce:

Remove the pot from heat Stir in heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and the cheese has melted If the sauce is thicker than you like add a splash or two of beef broth If it is a little bit thin let it sit for a couple of minutes off heat to thicken

Serve:

Spoon the pasta into bowls or onto plates Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese The flavors mingle even more as it sits making leftovers fantastic

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Parmesan is my favorite part of the recipe because it adds such a punch of flavor I have a vivid memory of grating way too much cheese over my bowl one night and my youngest laughing at my “cheese snowstorm” moment We all went back for seconds

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to revive the sauce Freezes well for up to two months though the pasta may soften a bit

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if you prefer a lighter version Try whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber and protein No heavy cream on hand Whole milk and a pat of butter work in a pinch Parmesan can be replaced with pecorino romano for a little extra tang

Serving Suggestions

This is amazing with crusty Texas toast garlic bread or a side salad It also pairs nicely with steamed broccoli or green beans for extra color and crunch Double the recipe to feed a crowd or bring to a potluck since it holds its heat well

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Cultural or Historical Context

One pot pasta dishes are beloved for good reason They save time and let flavors meld together perfectly This one reminds me of hearty Italian American classics that might show up at a cozy Sunday dinner or holiday meal—only a lot less fussy

Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fusilli, rotini, penne, or any sturdy short pasta work well and soak up the sauce beautifully.

→ How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes uncovered. For a thinner sauce, stir in extra beef broth gradually.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead?

This pasta tastes great reheated. Store leftovers covered in the fridge and add a splash of broth when warming.

→ What are good sides for creamy beef pasta?

Serve with Texas toast, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad for a balanced, cozy meal.