Are you looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta is here to save your day! This simple dish combines cozy flavors with easy cooking, all in one pot. You’ll love how fast it comes together without skimping on taste. Get ready to impress your family or guests with this creamy, beefy delight. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Aromatics and Seasoning
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Cooking Essentials
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. It makes the process smooth and fun. I love using fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor. You can also adjust the seasonings to fit your taste. If you want a bit more heat, add some red pepper flakes.
In this recipe, the ground beef provides protein and flavor. The heavy cream makes the pasta rich and creamy. You can use any pasta shape, but penne holds sauce well. Don’t forget the peas! They add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
You can find the full recipe at the end of this section. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make and tastes great. Enjoy your cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Add 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and sauté for 3-4 minutes. The onion should turn soft and fragrant.
– Next, stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for another minute while stirring. This helps to unlock the garlic’s flavor without burning it.
Cooking the Beef
– Now, add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot.
– Use a wooden spoon to break the beef apart. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it turns brown.
– Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning. Stir well to mix the flavors.
Combining Ingredients
– Pour in 4 cups of beef broth. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil.
– Add 12 ounces of penne pasta and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Stir to combine everything well.
– Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently.
Finishing Touches
– After about 10-12 minutes, check the pasta. It should be al dente and most of the liquid absorbed.
– Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of frozen peas. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.
– Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
For the complete recipe, refer to the section titled Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Creaminess
To get the best creaminess in your dish, add the cream slowly. This helps it blend well. Stir gently while adding, so it mixes evenly. If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. You can also adjust the sauce’s thickness with beef broth. If it feels too thick, add a little broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Flavor Enhancement
To boost the flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika. These spices add warmth and depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley also work well. For a nice finish, top your dish with grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh basil leaves give a pop of color and taste great too.
Cooking Variations
Feel free to switch up the pasta! You can use spaghetti, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Each type brings a unique texture. If you prefer, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat. These options create a different flavor while still being delicious.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
If you want a meatless dish, try using lentils or mushrooms instead of beef. Lentils cook quickly and add a nice texture. Mushrooms bring a rich, earthy flavor. You can use about 1 cup of cooked lentils or 8 ounces of chopped mushrooms. Cook them in the same way as the beef. The dish will still be creamy and delicious!
Gluten-Free Adaptation
For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free pasta. There are many great options available now. Choose a shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time. The rest of the recipe stays the same. Your creamy beef pasta will still taste amazing!
Flavorful Additions
To make the dish even better, try adding spinach or bell peppers. Spinach adds color and nutrients. You can stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach at the end. Bell peppers add crunch and sweetness. Use one medium bell pepper, diced, and add it with the onions. These additions not only boost flavor but also make the dish look more appealing.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers properly, let the pasta cool first. Place the creamy beef pasta in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, check for any smell or texture changes before reheating.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing cooked pasta is easy. Use a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the container with the date. You can freeze the pasta for up to three months. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your pasta, use a pot on low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or cream to keep it moist. Stir slowly until it heats through. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the flavors bright and tasty.
FAQs
How long does it take to make One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta?
This dish takes about 30 minutes to make. You need around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s quick and easy, perfect for busy nights.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook the pasta and beef as directed. Cool it down and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready, just reheat it on the stove. You may need to add a splash of broth to bring back the creaminess.
What can I serve with One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta?
You can pair this dish with several sides. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is a great choice for soaking up the creamy sauce. You might also enjoy steamed broccoli or a side of roasted vegetables.
Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them up and add them when you stir in the cream and peas. This adds color and boosts the nutrition in your meal. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe for options.
This blog post covered all you need to make One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta. We explored key ingredients, from ground beef to creamy goodness. You learned how to cook each component step by step. We also shared tips to enhance flavor and variations for different diets.
With these details, you can create a tasty dish for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, and make this recipe your own!
