One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that is as easy to make as it is delicious, this One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta is an absolute game-changer. Combining tender ground beef with a luscious, creamy tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, all made in a single pot, this dish delivers a fantastic balance of hearty and indulgent flavors. It’s quick to prepare, packed with comforting goodness, and the perfect recipe to impress your family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta means gathering simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a starring role in the final dish. From aromatic spices to creamy elements and fresh herbs, every item contributes to the rich flavor, perfect texture, and visually inviting look of this pasta.

• 1 tsp Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish beautifully.
• 3/4 tsp Smoked Paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth that lifts the beef perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano: Gives a subtle herbal note that complements the tomato base.
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Adds just the right kick without overpowering the creaminess.
• 1/4–1/2 tsp Chili Flakes: Offers a gentle heat that awakens the palate.
• 1/4 tsp Dried Thyme: Brings an earthy aroma that melds beautifully with the other herbs.
• 1 medium White Onion, finely diced: Provides sweetness and texture once cooked down.
• 3 cloves of Garlic, finely diced: Infuses the dish with a rich, savory backdrop.
• 500g Minced/Ground Beef: The hearty star, delivering protein and meaty flavor.
• 2 tbsp Tomato Puree: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 600ml Beef Stock: Creates the savory liquid base, enhancing the beefiness.
• 500g Tomato Passata: Gives a smooth, fresh tomato character to the sauce.
• 180ml Double/Heavy Cream: Brings luscious creaminess and balances acidity.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami richness that amps up the depth.
• 300g uncooked Conchiglie Pasta: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Finely diced Fresh Parsley, to serve: Adds color and a fresh, bright note to finish.
• Olive Oil, as needed: For searing and softening the aromatics.

How to Make One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef

Start by mixing together salt, smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, chili flakes, and thyme, creating a flavorful seasoning blend. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil and add the minced beef, tossing it in your seasoning mix. Sear it over medium-high heat until browned all over and beautifully caramelized. This step locks in the juicy beefy flavor that will form the backbone of your sauce.

Step 2: Cook Onions and Garlic

Once the beef is nicely browned, push it to the side of the pot or remove briefly. Add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in finely diced white onions and garlic. Cook these gently until soft and fragrant—this warmth builds a solid flavor foundation. Stir in your tomato puree, letting it cook for a minute or two to deepen its sweetness and reduce any raw taste.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Now for the magic: pour in the beef stock, tomato passata, double cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until it comes to a gentle simmer. Add the uncooked conchiglie pasta and give it a good stir, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. This allows the pasta to cook right inside the sauce, absorbing all those amazing flavors as it softens.

Step 4: Simmer Until Perfect

Reduce the heat to low-medium and let the pasta simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. After about 12-15 minutes, the pasta should be tender and the sauce creamy, rich, and perfectly thickened. If it looks too thick, splash in a little more stock or water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Give your pot one final stir to combine everything beautifully. Check seasoning and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Remove from heat and get ready to plate up this scrumptious, hearty meal.

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta

Garnishes

Finishing your dish with a sprinkle of finely diced fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy richness, making it visually inviting and aromatic. If you like a touch of extra zing, a light dusting of parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can enhance the indulgence further.

Side Dishes

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider serving with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. These sides add texture contrast and freshen the palate after the creamy pasta experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve your One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta in rustic shallow bowls, letting the sauce pool invitingly around the pasta. Add a bundle of microgreens on top or a small wedge of lemon on the side for guests to brighten with a squeeze. It’s a simple twist that elevates the presentation instantly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the creamy sauce and avoid drying out the pasta.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to two months. Keep in mind that fresh herbs are best added after reheating, as freezing may dull their flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently to redistribute the sauce evenly and prevent sticking. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of milk or stock to loosen it up for that irresistible creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While conchiglie is great for holding the sauce, you can use penne, fusilli, or any short pasta shape that cooks in about the same time. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based mince or cooked lentils, and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version that’s just as creamy and satisfying.

Can I prepare this dish without cream?

You can omit the double cream and use extra passata or a splash of coconut milk if you prefer. Keep in mind the texture will be less rich but still tasty and comforting.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

A little soy sauce or even a splash of balsamic vinegar can substitute in a pinch, adding that umami boost that Worcestershire sauce provides.

How do I make sure the pasta doesn’t stick during cooking?

Stir the pot regularly while the pasta simmers to prevent sticking. Using enough liquid and keeping the heat moderate also helps the pasta cook evenly without clumping.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals, delivering comfort and flavor with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to share with loved ones repeatedly, knowing it never disappoints. So grab your pot, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a dinner that’s creamy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.

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