One Pot Beef Pasta: Easy Dinner in 30 Minutes!

January 9, 2026

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One pot beef pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner champion. Imagine tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce all coming together in a single pot. Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor? Sign me up! I remember my grandmother making something similar when I was little, though she never wrote anything down. This gotastyrecipes.com version is my attempt to recreate that comforting, homey flavor with a modern one pot twist. We will make one pot beef pasta to tonight!

This recipe is all about simplicity without sacrificing taste. It’s the kind of meal that makes busy weeknights feel a little less chaotic and a lot more delicious. Think of it as a warm hug in a bowl. The best part? The entire dish cooks in one pot, saving you precious time and effort. I call that weeknight win!

Why You Will Love This one pot beef pasta Recipe

This one pot beef pasta recipe is a life saver. It’s quick, convenient, and packed with flavor. The rich beefy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. Clean up is a breeze too, since everything cooks in one pot! Plus, it’s a hearty meal the whole family will love. I often make it on those evenings when I have zero energy to cook but still want something delicious.

I especially love this recipe because it reminds me of my family meals. My evenings spent at my grandma’s house cooking something amazing after school, and my week is automatically better. I hope you create similar memories with this simple one pot beef pasta dish.

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Ingredients Needed for This one pot beef pasta Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious one pot beef pasta:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite short shape)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Try spicing it up by adding seasoned Shrimp!

How to Make This one pot beef pasta Recipe

  1. 1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. 2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. 4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
  5. 5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. 6. Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further.
  7. 7. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. Delicious accompanied with One Pot Beef Wraps!

How to Serve This one pot beef pasta Recipe

This one pot beef pasta is delicious served simply as is! For an extra touch, you can garnish with fresh basil leaves or a dollop of ricotta cheese. A side of garlic bread or a simple salad also complements the dish nicely. My personal favorite is a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat! It also serves well next to Oney Pot Salmon Pasta!

How to Store This one pot beef pasta Recipe

Leftover one pot beef pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Ensure it is properly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

Tips to Make This one pot beef pasta Recipe

  • Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients. Ground Italian sausage can be used instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
  • Success Tips: Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente.
  • Common Mistakes to Avoid: Not stirring the pasta frequently enough can cause it to stick to the bottom of the pot. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
  • Pro Tips for Best Results: Brown the ground beef well for a deeper, richer flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Helpful Notes for This one pot beef pasta Recipe

  • The type of pasta you use can affect the cooking time, so keep an eye on it.
  • If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use a blender or immersion blender to purée the crushed tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
  • For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Variation of This one pot beef pasta Recipe

  • Seasonal Twists: Add roasted butternut squash in the fall or fresh spinach in the spring for seasonal variations.
  • Optional Versions: Try adding a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for added protein and fiber.
  • Creative Modifications: Spice it up with chorizo or add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.

What kind of pasta is best for one pot beef pasta?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work best for one pot beef pasta. They cook evenly and hold the sauce well.

How do you prevent pasta from sticking together in a one pot recipe?

Adding enough liquid and stirring occasionally during cooking is key. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce and stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.

Can I add vegetables to one pot beef pasta?

Yes, you can add vegetables like diced onions, bell peppers, or zucchini. It is best to add them at the beginning of creating the flavorful beef base, around the same time you are browning the beef.

How do I make one pot beef pasta creamy?

Stir in a dollop of cream cheese, sour cream, or heavy cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce. A little grated parmesan cheese does the trick too.

Conclusion

This simple one pot beef pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. It brings together the comfort of a classic pasta dish with the convenience of one pot cooking. I hope this recipe brings as much joy and ease to your weeknights as it has to mine. Give this one pot beef pasta a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!

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One Pot Beef Pasta: Easy Dinner in 30 Minutes!


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This one pot beef pasta recipe is an easy and delicious weeknight meal. Ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce come together in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite short shape)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: one pot beef pasta, easy pasta recipe, beef recipe, quick dinner

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