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Family Favorite One-Pot Pasta with Ground Beef and Tomato Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Melanie
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Season the Meat: Season the browned beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.