Introduction to One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
There's something truly magical about one-pot meals, and our one pot creamy tomato beef pasta is the perfect example. Imagine coming home after a long day, craving comfort food but dreading the cleanup. One-pot meals not only simplify the cooking process but also allow flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish.
One-pot cooking has gained popularity for good reason! These meals are not just about convenience; they’re about efficiency. With everything simmering together in one pot, you can save time on both cooking and cleaning. According to a study published by the Institute of Medicine, busy individuals often struggle to maintain a balanced diet, but meals like this one can help you whip up something nourishing without the fuss. Less dishwashing means more time to relax or catch up on your favorite show!
Plus, this creamy tomato beef pasta is a delightful blend of hearty ingredients, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry. It’s filled with protein from the beef and vibrant flavors from the Italian herbs, making it both comforting and delicious. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking! For more inspiration, check out our full One Pot Pasta recipe collection.
Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Creating a comforting and satisfying meal doesn’t have to be complicated. For your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta, here’s a handy ingredient list that makes this dish not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare.
Essential ingredients
To whip up this delightful pasta, you’ll need:
- Olive oil
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Onion (1, finely chopped)
- Ground beef (500g/1 lb)
- Italian herbs (2 tsp)
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp)
- Crushed tomatoes (400g/14 oz can)
- Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional)
- Salt (1 ½ tsp)
- Black pepper (½ tsp)
- Low-sodium chicken stock (4 cups/1L)
- Short pasta (350g/12 oz, like fusilli or penne)
- Heavy cream (¾ cup)
Optional ingredients for customization
Feel free to personalize your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta with these extras:
- Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley for garnish)
- Cheese (grated Parmesan for topping)
- Vegetables (spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor)
- Mushrooms or zucchini (sautéed with the beef for a hearty twist)
Check out more tips and variations on pasta dishes at the Pasta Recipes Hub!
Preparing One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Making one pot creamy tomato beef pasta is a delightful adventure in your kitchen, perfect for busy professionals craving comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With each step, we’ll be enhancing the richness and ensuring every bite is bursting with Italian goodness. Let's dive in!
Sautéing the aromatics
Begin by heating 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-based pot over high heat. The oil will shimmer as it warms up — a sign you're ready to add the aromatics! Toss in two finely minced garlic cloves and one finely chopped onion. Sauté these for about 1.5 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onion turns translucent. This step is pivotal as it lays the foundation for the rich flavors of your dish. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere!
Cooking the beef and seasonings
Once your aromatics are established, it’s time to bring in the star of the show: 500 grams (or 1 pound) of beef mince (ground beef). Break it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. After the beef loses its red color, sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Italian herbs — it’s the easy shortcut to classic Italian flavor! Don’t forget to add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. This step is crucial to develop deep, savory notes, enhancing the overall robustness of your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta.
Combining all ingredients
Now we’re evolving our rich mixture! Carefully stir in a 400g can of crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata), 4 cups of low-sodium chicken stock, salt (1.5 teaspoons), black pepper (½ teaspoon), and, if you're feeling adventurous, ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Once combined, add in 350g (about 12oz) of your favorite short pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni work beautifully). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and watch the magic happen!
Cooking the pasta to perfection
Let’s get ready to finish cooking that pasta! Allow your pot to simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally — especially towards the end — to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. You want the pasta to absorb all those amazing flavors from the sauce while becoming perfectly al dente. This step ensures that your dish is not only hearty but also wonderfully cohesive.
Creating the creamy sauce
With the pasta on its way to perfection, it’s time to add the star ingredient: ¾ cup of thickened (heavy) cream. Stir this in and let everything swirl together for another minute or two. The sauce will remain nicely saucy, creating that luxurious creamy texture we absolutely adore. This is the point where your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta transforms into a comforting, indulgent meal.
Remove from heat, serve, and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley if desired. Your delicious, easy-to-make meal is now ready to enjoy — a true testament to the magic of one-pot cooking!
For more tips and variations, don’t miss exploring other pasta recipes on Food Network. Enjoy every single bite!
Variations on One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Vegetarian Option
You can easily transform your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta into a delightful vegetarian dish by substituting the beef with plant-based protein options. Try using lentils or chickpeas for added texture and flavor. Incorporating a mix of seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, will elevate the dish even further. Just sauté the veggies along with the garlic and onion for a beautiful burst of color and nutrients!
Dairy-Free Alternative
If you're looking for a dairy-free take on this recipe, consider replacing heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Both alternatives maintain a rich, creamy texture while providing that comforting flavor. To maintain the sauce’s thickness, simply add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. Your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta will still be full of flavor, and the dairy-free twist will cater to lactose-sensitive diners!
For more inspiration, don't forget to check out some of my favorite vegetarian and dairy-free recipes on Minimalist Baker and Oh She Glows.
Cooking tips and notes for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Tips for perfect seasoning
To elevate the flavors in your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta, start with fresh ingredients! Use freshly minced garlic and onion for a robust base. Remember to taste as you go; adding salt incrementally lets you dial in the perfect seasoning without overwhelming the dish. Want an extra kick? A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add just the right amount of heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy tomato sauce. Consider finishing with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh touch!
Using different pasta shapes
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—feel free to explore various pasta shapes! While fusilli or penne works perfectly, you can also use elbow macaroni or rotini. Each shape captures the sauce differently, providing a unique texture and bite. Not a fan of short pasta? Just break long pasta into halves or thirds, and it will cook just as beautifully. Cooking isn't about rules; it’s about creativity—and this dish invites you to make it your own!
Serving suggestions for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Pairing with Side Dishes
Enhance your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta by serving it alongside light, fresh side dishes. A classic mixed greens salad, tossed with a simple balsamic vinaigrette, adds a refreshing crunch. You could also serve garlic bread, perfect for soaking up that creamy tomato sauce, or even roasted vegetables for a wholesome touch. Want to explore more options? Check out these side dish ideas.
Ideal Garnishments
Bring your dish to life with thoughtful garnishments! A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds richness, while chopped parsley introduces a vibrant color and fresh flavor. If you're looking for a kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or even a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch. These little enhancements not only elevate the presentation but also create layers of flavor, transforming your meal into a delightful experience. Dive into garnishing tips at Taste of Home.
Time breakdown for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Preparation time
Getting ready to whip up this one pot creamy tomato beef pasta is quick and simple, taking just 10 minutes. Chop your garlic and onion, measure out your ingredients, and you're all set to dive into the cooking process!
Cooking time
Once you're prepped, you'll need about 20 minutes to bring this delicious dish to life. From sautéing to simmering, this recipe is a harmonious blend of flavors that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Total time
In total, you're looking at approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect option for a busy weeknight, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without a long wait. Why not give it a try and elevate your weeknight dinners?
For more delicious ideas and inspiration, be sure to check out these easy pasta recipes that can help you spice up your meal planning!
Nutritional Facts for One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Calories per serving
Each serving of this delicious one pot creamy tomato beef pasta contains about 610 calories. It’s a satisfying dish that combines comfort with flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Macronutrient breakdown
Here's a closer look at the macronutrient content:
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 24g (with saturated fat at 11g)
These balanced macros provide ample energy and nourishment. For reference, if you're curious about the nutritional guidelines, you can check out USDA Dietary Guidelines.
This one pot creamy tomato beef pasta not only pleases your palate but also fuels your day! Enjoy the flavorful experience while knowing you're getting a well-rounded meal. What’s not to love?
FAQs about One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! One pot creamy tomato beef pasta can be prepped in advance. Cook the dish as instructed and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
What if I don’t have some of the ingredients?
No problem! This recipe is flexible. If you don’t have specific ingredients, like Italian herbs or heavy cream, you can substitute with what you have on hand. For example, for the herbs, a mix of dried oregano, parsley, and basil works great. If you’re out of heavy cream, use whole milk or a plant-based cream alternative to maintain a creamy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers of your one pot creamy tomato beef pasta can be stored in the fridge for 3 days. Just place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Unfortunately, this dish isn’t suitable for freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing. For more tips on food storage, check out the USDA Food Safety Guidelines.
Conclusion on One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
In conclusion, this one pot creamy tomato beef pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner option, offering comfort and convenience all in one dish. With its rich flavor profile and straightforward preparation, you can whip this up effortlessly. Don’t forget to experiment with different pasta shapes and toppings to make it your own! For more delightful dishes, explore our full One Pot Pasta recipe collection.
One pot creamy tomato beef pasta
Equipment
- large heavy based pot
Ingredients
- 1.5 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 500 g beef mince / ground beef
- 2 teaspoon Italian herbs Store bought mix or a combination of dried oregano, parsley, basil
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 400 g crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1.5 teaspoon cooking salt / kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken stock / broth, low sodium
- 350 g fusilli, penne, elbow macaroni or other short pasta
- ¾ cups thickened / heavy cream
Serving
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Parsley, finely chopped optional
Instructions
- Heat the oil on high heat in a large heavy-based pot. Cook garlic and onion for 1 ½ minutes.
- Add beef and cook, breaking it up as you go, until you can no longer see red meat. Add the Italian herbs and cook for 30 seconds, then add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to cook out the raw flavour.
- Add crushed tomato, chicken stock, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir, then add the pasta.
- Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cook for 15 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes then more frequently towards the end until the pasta is just about cooked.
- Add cream, then simmer for a further 1 to 2 minutes. It will still be quite saucy - this is what you want!
- Remove from the stove. Give it a good stir then ladle into bowls. Serve with parmesan and parsley.
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