If you are searching for a comforting, hearty meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied appetites, look no further than this Family Favorite One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomato Recipe. It is the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth with every bite—effortlessly combining tender pasta, rich ground beef, and vibrant tomato flavors all cooked together in a single pot. This recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness, making it a true staple for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to making this dish truly shine. Each component is carefully selected to add its own magic—be it texture, flavor, or color—to create a beautiful, satisfying meal.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that gives the dish its rich, meaty depth.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and soft texture that balances the savory flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a gentle kick that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean flair.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides tangy juiciness and vibrant color.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a rich, saucy base for the pasta to absorb.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow or penne): The tender, chewy foundation that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 cups water or beef broth: The liquid that cooks the pasta and intensifies the meaty taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, creamy goodness throughout the pasta.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top for extra aroma and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps soften the onion and garlic while adding a hint of richness.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Freshens the dish visually and adds a pop of herbal brightness.
How to Make Family Favorite One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomato Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft—this creates a flavorful foundation. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for 30 seconds, just enough to become fragrant without burning. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon and cooking until it’s beautifully browned all over. If there’s excess fat, drain it off for a cleaner taste.
Step 2: Season and Combine
Now, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, stirring so the meat evenly absorbs these lovely layers of flavor. Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, uncooked pasta, and water or beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients harmoniously. This step builds the luscious, rich sauce your pasta will cook in.
Step 3: Simmer Until Perfectly Tender
Bring the skillet to a gentle simmer, then cover it with a lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the noodles are tender and have soaked up that savory tomato sauce, creating an irresistible one-pot meal.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Finish
Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts into creamy, dreamy strands. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, cover once more, and let it rest for 2 minutes to allow the cheeses to melt completely and bind the whole dish together. Your Family Favorite One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomato Recipe is now ready to be served!
How to Serve Family Favorite One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomato Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is all you need to brighten this dish visually and add a fresh herbal note that complements the richness of the beef and cheese. If you love heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can give it a lovely kick.
Side Dishes
This hearty one-pot pasta pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. The light, fresh sides balance the richness perfectly, making your meal both indulgent and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve it straight from the skillet at the center of the table so everyone can dig in. Alternatively, portion it into individual bowls, topping each with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for that gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Family Favorite One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomato Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, so leftovers taste just as good, if not better.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When freezing, consider leaving out the cheeses and adding fresh mozzarella and Parmesan after thawing to keep the texture fresh.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore that creamy, melty texture. Adding a splash of water or broth when reheating helps keep the pasta moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a leaner alternative and still provides plenty of protein and flavor. Just follow the same cooking steps for a delicious variation.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to maintain that hearty texture and savory flavor.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni and penne are perfect because they hold the sauce well and cook evenly. You can experiment with other small shapes, but avoid very thin pasta that might overcook.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Adding chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers during the simmering step boosts nutrition and adds fresh flavors without sacrificing the classic taste.
How spicy is the dish?
This recipe is mild and kid-friendly by default. You can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want to spice things up, tailoring it to your family’s preferences.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a meal that brings everyone together effortlessly, and the Family Favorite One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomato Recipe does just that with charm and taste. Its ease, hearty flavors, and comforting textures make it one of those dishes you’ll be glad to keep coming back to. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a new family favorite in your home! Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Family Favorite One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomato Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This hearty and comforting one-pot pasta dish combines ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of Italian seasonings with tender pasta, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy family dinner, it’s flavorful, satisfying, and made entirely on the stovetop for convenience.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow or penne)
- 2 cups water or beef broth
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Season the Meat: Season the browned beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Add Tomatoes, Pasta, and Liquid: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, uncooked pasta, and water or beef broth. Stir everything together to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Incorporate the Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and evenly mixed. Then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Melt Cheese and Garnish: Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to fully melt. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or other vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor.
- This dish reheats very well and makes excellent leftovers for quick meals later in the week.
