One-Pot Beef Pasta

This easy one-pot beef pasta is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. Tender ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and savory seasonings all cook together in one pot, creating a rich and flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. It’s hearty, cheesy, and so satisfying that everyone will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups beef broth
• 8 oz (225 g) pasta, such as penne or rotini
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds.
5. Add the tomato paste and stir well to coat the beef.
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine.
7. Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
8. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
9. Remove from the heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
• If the pasta absorbs the liquid too quickly, add a splash of beef broth or water.
• For extra cheesy pasta, add more mozzarella before serving.
• A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delicious kick.
• Let the pasta rest for 2–3 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken.

Serving

Serve this one-pot beef pasta with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and comforting dinner.