Looking for a quick, hearty meal? One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta is your answer. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a dish that’s both creamy and satisfying. With basic ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Join me as we explore the flavors and easy preparation of this comfort food classic. Get ready to impress your family with this delightful meal!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Gather these ingredients before you start. This makes cooking fun and easy. Each item plays a role in making this meal creamy and delicious. Ground beef gives protein and flavor. Penne pasta adds texture. Onion and garlic give a great aroma. Beef broth enhances the taste while cream and cheese make it rich. Italian seasoning and smoked paprika add warmth. Salt and pepper balance everything out. Olive oil helps to sauté and adds healthy fat. Finally, fresh parsley makes your dish look pretty and fresh.
By using these ingredients, you can create a meal that feels gourmet but is still simple. It’s a great meal for busy nights or family gatherings. For the full recipe, check back to see how to put it all together.
Nutritional Information
– Approx. 600 calories per serving
– Macronutrient breakdown:
– Fat: 30g
– Carbs: 50g
– Protein: 35g
This meal not only delights your taste buds but also fuels your body. Each serving packs a good amount of protein, carbs, and fats. This makes it a balanced choice for lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Heat olive oil and sauté onions
In a large pot, pour two tablespoons of olive oil. Turn the heat to medium. Add one small diced onion. Cook it for about three to four minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear.
– Add garlic and ground beef
Next, add two minced cloves of garlic. Stir it for one to two minutes until you smell the garlic. Now, raise the heat to medium-high. Add one pound of ground beef. Cook it for five to seven minutes. Break the beef apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, one teaspoon each of Italian seasoning and smoked paprika.
Cooking Steps
– Incorporate penne pasta and broth
Stir in twelve ounces of penne pasta, making sure it mixes well with the beef. Then, pour in two cups of beef broth. Bring it to a boil.
– Simmer until pasta is tender
Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for ten to twelve minutes. Stir it occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. When the pasta is soft, you are ready for the next step.
Final Touches
– Stir in heavy cream and cheese
After the pasta is cooked, pour in one cup of heavy cream. Add one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well mixed.
– Adjust seasoning and serve
Taste your dish and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the creamy beef pasta in bowls. Top with fresh parsley for a nice look. Enjoy your meal! For more details, you can check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To keep pasta from sticking, stir it often. Use a large pot to give pasta space. A Dutch oven works well since it heats evenly. Make sure to add enough liquid for the pasta to cook. Using broth adds flavor and helps with sticking.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want an alternative for ground beef, try turkey or chicken. For a plant-based option, use lentils or mushrooms. To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a nut-based milk. Nutritional yeast can replace cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the creamy beef pasta in deep bowls for a cozy feel. Top with fresh parsley and more cheese to make it pop. Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a lovely meal. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add a nice touch too.
Variations
Additional Ingredients
You can make One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta even better by adding veggies. Spinach or mushrooms work great. They add color and nutrients. Toss in a handful of fresh spinach just before serving. It wilts nicely and adds good taste. Mushrooms also bring a rich flavor. Sauté them with the onions for extra depth.
You can switch up the cheese too. While cheddar is tasty, you might prefer mozzarella or Parmesan. Each cheese gives a different twist. Mixing cheeses can create a creamy delight. Just sprinkle them in when you add the heavy cream.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great choices that cook just like regular pasta. You won’t miss the gluten. For a low-carb option, try zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. They cut carbs and add fresh flavors.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost the taste, consider adding spices or sauces. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. If you love garlic, add more minced garlic for a strong flavor. You could also stir in some BBQ sauce for a fun twist.
If you want a savory kick, consider Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce. These add umami and depth. You can make it spicy by adding hot sauce to your taste. Adjust the flavors to fit your mood.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This helps avoid sogginess.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta! Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, heat on the stove or microwave until warm.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your creamy beef pasta lasts about 3 to 4 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If it smells off or looks moldy, it’s best to throw it away. Enjoy your meal, but keep food safety in mind!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta in advance?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool. Store it in a container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry.
What can I serve with this dish?
I love serving this pasta with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also add steamed veggies on the side. These add color and nutrition to your meal.
Cooking Time Queries
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You spend 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking. It is quick and perfect for busy nights.
Can I cook the pasta separately?
You can, but I do not recommend it for this recipe. Cooking the pasta in the same pot lets it soak up all the tasty flavors. It saves time and reduces the number of dishes to wash.
Recipe Adjustments
How to scale the recipe for more servings?
To serve more people, simply double the ingredients. Use 2 pounds of beef and 24 ounces of pasta. Make sure to use a larger pot to fit everything.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use different pasta shapes. Bowtie or fusilli work great. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose. Always check the package for cooking times.
This blog post covered a delicious One-Pot Creamy Beef Pasta recipe. We looked at all the ingredients, from beef and pasta to spices and cheese. I shared clear cooking steps to help you make it right. Tips for storage and variations also offered new ideas.
Try different foods based on the tips provided. Experiment until you find your favorite version. Enjoy the cooking process and share this meal with others!