One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta
A cozy and creamy one-pot dinner that combines beef and pasta cooked right in a flavorful sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80 to 90 percent lean) Easy to swap for other proteins like turkey or plant-based crumbles.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cups beef broth Can substitute with water plus bouillon.
- 1 cup milk Whole milk makes it extra creamy.
- 10 to 12 ounces pasta (shells, rotini, penne, or macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika Optional but enhances flavor.
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella Can mix both types.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream Optional for extra creaminess.
- Fresh parsley or basil for topping Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up. Cook until mostly browned.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- If there's excess grease, spoon some off but leave a little for flavor.
Building Flavor
- Push the beef to the side and add tomato paste. Stir for about 30 seconds before mixing it into the beef.
- Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking the Pasta
- Pour in beef broth and milk, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add pasta, ensuring it's mostly covered. Lower heat to a steady simmer, cover, and cook for about 10 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finishing Touches
- Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, reduce heat to low.
- Stir in shredded cheese and add cream cheese or heavy cream for extra creaminess.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving. Top with parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
For a thicker sauce, add a splash of broth or milk at the end if too thick, or simmer uncovered for a couple of minutes if too loose. Avoid high heat to prevent burning.