Contents
- 1 One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
- 2 One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Introduction
Have you ever found yourself craving a comforting meal that can be whipped up in no time, yet feels indulgent? If so, you’re not alone; studies show that 70% of home cooks seek recipes that balance convenience and flavor. Today, we’ll delve into a delightful solution: One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a sure-fire way to impress family and friends. Read on for a recipe that is packed with flavor and simplicity!
Ingredients List
To make your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (or substitute with turkey or lentils for a healthier option)
- Pasta: 12 oz (penne or fusilli works best)
- Tomato Sauce: 2 cups (feel free to use homemade or canned varieties)
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative)
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: for garnishing (optional)
- Fresh Basil: for serving (optional but recommended)
Imagine a creamy, savory blend wafting through your kitchen—these ingredients come together beautifully for a hearty meal.
Timing
Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
This recipe takes 30 minutes total, considerably quicker than the average pasta dish, which can take up to 50 minutes. Who doesn’t love saving time in the kitchen?
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant. This sets the stage for the flavors to blossom.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Ensuring the beef is well-browned maximizes flavor!
Step 3: Incorporate the Pasta
Pour in the tomato sauce and 4 cups of water, and increase the heat to bring it to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta. Give it a good stir to prevent sticking, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook Until Done
Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking—this will help the pasta absorb all that delightful flavor.
Step 5: Cream It Up
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) to create a luscious sauce. Allow it to simmer for another couple of minutes, continuously stirring until everything is well-combined and creamy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta, and top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy a warm bowl that brings comfort and joy to all!
Nutritional Information
A single serving of One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta (with ground beef and heavy cream) contains approximately:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To boost the nutritional profile:
- Pasta Alternative: Opt for whole wheat, chickpea, or spiralized zucchini noodles.
- Meat Substitute: Use ground turkey or plant-based protein for lower fat options.
- Cream Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with low-fat Greek yogurt or a blend of cashew cream for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your dish by pairing it with:
- A side salad filled with mixed greens and cherry tomatoes.
- Garlic bread for a crunchy contrast.
- A dollop of pesto or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Always check the pasta a few minutes before the time is up to avoid mushiness.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Enhancing flavors with proper seasoning is key. Don’t underestimate salt, pepper, and herbs!
- Neglecting to Stir: Ensure you stir occasionally to avoid sticking at the bottom of the pot.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Consider freezing portions for up to a month. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or cream to rejuvenate the sauce and prevent dryness.
Conclusion
With an easy preparation method and minimal cleanup, One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress! Give it a try, and don’t forget to drop your feedback in the comments. Your next favorite dish awaits!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Is it possible to make it vegetarian?
A: Certainly! Just replace ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be delicious additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.
Feel free to explore more recipes or share your own adaptations of the dish! Happy cooking!
One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef or substitute with turkey or lentils for a healthier option
- 12 oz Pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups Tomato Sauce feel free to use homemade or canned varieties
- 1 cup Heavy Cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- to taste Salt and Pepper
- Grated Parmesan Cheese, for garnishing optional
- Fresh Basil, for serving optional but recommended
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Adding Pasta
- Pour in the tomato sauce and 4 cups of water, and increase the heat to bring it to a boil.
- Add the uncooked pasta. Give it a good stir to prevent sticking, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Simmering
- Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
Finishing Touch
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and allow it to simmer for another couple of minutes while continuously stirring until well-combined and creamy.
Serving
- Dish out your One Pot Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta, and top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.