If you love dishes that bring comfort, flavor, and ease all into one pot, you are going to adore this One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender ground beef richly browned, cozy pasta cooked right in savory beef broth, then all luxuriously blended with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create a silky sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients list. Each component plays an essential role—from the robust flavor of ground beef to the creamy texture imparted by heavy cream and Parmesan, every ingredient contributes to making this dish irresistibly satisfying.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean or regular depending on your preference for richness and fat content.
- 12 oz pasta: Your go-to shape works best here; short pasta like penne or rotini catch the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups beef broth: This adds depth and moisture, infusing the pasta with savory flavor as it cooks.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that luscious, creamy texture that makes the dish so comforting.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, providing sharp, nutty notes.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by heating your pot over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. This step is crucial because browning develops rich flavors that give the dish its hearty base.
Step 2: Add Pasta and Beef Broth
Once the beef is cooked through, add your pasta directly into the pot with the beef. Pour in the beef broth, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged. This allows the pasta to absorb that rich broth flavor while it cooks, eliminating the need for extra seasoning later.
Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Turn the heat down to a gentle simmer and cover the pot. Let the pasta cook in the broth, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a perfectly tender yet firm texture. This simmering infuses the noodles with savory beef flavor, creating a one-pot wonder with minimal mess.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan Cheese
Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The cream softens the sauce’s texture, while the Parmesan melts into a smooth, cheesy finish that coats every strand of pasta and tidbit of beef.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a pop of vibrant color and a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top also enhances the cheesy appeal and adds a little texture.
Side Dishes
Serve this pasta alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also pairs wonderfully, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try scooping this creamy beef pasta into hollowed-out bell peppers or ramekins for an inviting presentation. Alternatively, topping it with a handful of toasted breadcrumbs can add an unexpected crunchy layer of texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, so leftovers are often even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to keep the creamy texture intact.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back its smooth, creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe, though the flavor profile will shift slightly from the classic beef richness.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce better and cook evenly in the broth.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep it dairy-free.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when browning the beef or mix in some chopped jalapeños for a delicious kick that complements the creamy sauce.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients, and adjust cooking times slightly as needed.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe is truly a gem when you want something that hits all the right notes of comfort and simplicity. It’s perfect for busy nights yet impressively satisfying with its rich, creamy sauce and hearty beef. I encourage you to give it a try soon—once you do, it just might become one of your favorite go-to dishes too!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and satisfying one-pot creamy beef pasta that combines ground beef, tender pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce made with beef broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. This comforting dish is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
Liquids & Dairy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked through. Break it into crumbles as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Pour the uncooked pasta into the pot with the beef, then add the beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer Until Tender: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the broth, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Heat through without boiling, then serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides better flavor than pre-grated varieties.
- Add garlic or onion while browning the beef for extra flavor.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few minutes longer after adding cream and cheese.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
