Name: One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 500g (1 lb) beef mince (ground beef); 2 tsp Italian herbs; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 400g (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (chilli flakes, optional); 1 1/2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 4 cups (1 L) chicken stock/broth, low sodium; 350g (12 oz) fusilli, penne, elbow macaroni, or other short pasta; 3/4 cups thickened (heavy) cream; Parmesan cheese, finely grated (to serve); Parsley, finely chopped (optional, to serve)

If you’re craving a dinner that’s rich, comforting, and fuss-free, this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It brings together juicy ground beef, luscious tomato sauce, and tender pasta all cooked in the same pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. The creamy tomato sauce coats each bite perfectly, making it the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you try this dish, your kitchen will smell amazing and your family will ask for seconds in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with various cooking ingredients arranged neatly. There is a clear glass bowl filled with red raw ground meat in the top left corner. Below it, there is a white bowl filled with uncooked spiral pasta in golden yellow color. To the right of these, two clear glass measuring cups contain light cream and light brown broth. Positioned further right are a whole brown onion and two garlic cloves. Above the onion, small white bowls hold crushed red chili flakes and dried mixed herbs. In the bottom right corner, an opened white can with red tomato sauce is next to a small white bowl filled with the same red tomato sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Everything you need for this One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe is straightforward but essential. Each ingredient adds its own magic—whether it’s the fragrant garlic and onion building the flavor base, or the creamy finish that elevates the dish into pure indulgence. Let’s dive into what makes this meal so satisfying!

Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing aromatics and adding subtle richness.
Garlic cloves, finely minced: Adds a punch of fragrant warmth that’s simply irresistible.
Onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and depth to the savory sauce.
Beef mince (ground beef): Provides hearty protein and a meaty texture to the dish.
Italian herbs: A blend of classic herbs that lift the sauce with earthy, aromatic notes.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor with a rich, concentrated taste.
Crushed tomatoes or tomato passata: The saucy, tangy heart of the pasta experience.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat for those who love a little spice.
Cooking salt/kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle spiciness and rounds out the seasoning.
Chicken stock/broth (low sodium): A flavorful liquid base that helps cook the pasta and infuses the sauce.
Short pasta (fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni): Perfect shapes to hold onto that luscious sauce.
Thickened/heavy cream: Adds that dreamy, silky texture and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Parmesan cheese, finely grated: A savory topping that melts beautifully into each bite.
Parsley, finely chopped (optional): For a fresh, herbaceous finish when serving.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large heavy-based pot over high heat. Toss in the finely minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for about 1 1/2 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion starts to soften. This step builds the essential flavor foundation you’ll taste in every bite.

Step 2: Cook Beef and Seasonings

Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with your spoon as it browns. Cook until there is no pink visible, ensuring the beef is nicely browned for rich flavor. Sprinkle in the Italian herbs, stirring for 30 seconds before mixing in the tomato paste. Let that cook for a minute to eliminate any raw taste, which really deepens the sauce’s complexity.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients and Pasta

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir to meld the flavors, then add your choice of short pasta. This all-in-one step means the pasta will soak up that delicious sauce as it cooks.

Step 4: Simmer the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat slightly and cook for about 15 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes, increasing frequency as the pasta nears tenderness, to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This is where everything melds beautifully, creating that iconic one-pot convenience with amazing flavor.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream

Once the pasta is just about cooked, stir in the heavy cream for a luscious, silky finish. Let it simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll want to keep the sauce on the saucy side because the pasta will continue to absorb the liquid, resulting in a perfectly creamy texture just when you’re ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pot from heat, give your pasta a good final stir, and ladle it into bowls. Sprinkle finely grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top for that rich, cheesy, and fresh herbaceous touch that makes every mouthful a delight.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe

A white pot filled with twisted pasta covered in a rich, creamy orange sauce with bits of vegetables or herbs mixed in. Two hands, one on each side of the pot, hold it steady as a large spoon scoops up a generous serving, showing the sauce’s thick and smooth texture coating the pasta well. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding freshly grated Parmesan gives a savory boost and melts into the creamy tomato sauce beautifully. A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh note that balances the richness.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to scoop up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also provide a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual mini cocottes or casserole dishes, topped with a sprinkle of extra cheese and a crack of black pepper. It’s a great way to impress guests and make every serving feel special!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next meal just as satisfying. Be sure to cool the pasta completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and comforting meal.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen the sauce as the pasta absorbs liquid. Stir frequently to ensure even heating without drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni work best for holding the sauce, feel free to use your favorite pasta. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they can vary slightly depending on the shape.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or hearty veggies like mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to keep it vegetarian while maintaining the rich flavors.

How spicy is the dish?

The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, which provide just a gentle warmth. If you prefer no heat, simply omit them or adjust the amount to your liking for a mild but flavorful meal.

Can I prepare this in advance and reheat it later?

Definitely. The One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe is great for meal prep. Store it properly in the fridge and reheat as needed. The creamy sauce holds up well and tastes just as delicious the next day.

What can I do if the pasta absorbs too much liquid?

To rescue a sauce that’s become too thick, stir in a little extra cream, milk, or broth while reheating. This will loosen the sauce and keep the creamy texture you’re aiming for.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly comforting and satisfying. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings. Give it a go — I promise it will become a beloved staple on your dinner rotation!