Print

35-Minute One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 14 reviews

A hearty and flavorful one-pot creamy beef pasta recipe that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Ground beef is simmered with Italian seasonings, tomatoes, and pasta all cooked together in beef broth, then enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for a luscious, creamy finish.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pantry and Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 16 ounces pasta (fusilli, rotini, or similar)

Instructions

  1. Prepare aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking and stirring occasionally until softened, about 4 to 6 minutes.
  2. Cook beef with seasonings: Add ground beef to the pot. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks until browned and fully cooked through.
  3. Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in beef broth and the can of crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Cook pasta in sauce: Add the pasta to the simmering sauce and reduce heat to medium. Cover the pot and cook for 9 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the sauce flavors.
  5. Add cream and cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding beef broth one tablespoon at a time if too thick, or simmer gently to thicken if too thin.
  6. Serve: Serve the creamy beef pasta immediately, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Note that the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use San Marzano crushed tomatoes if possible.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional and add a nice kick; omit if you prefer milder dishes.
  • You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • Feel free to add fresh basil or parsley as garnish for extra freshness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.