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–+ servings

Easy One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with Beef

Rose
This Easy One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta with Beef is a hearty, family-friendly weeknight dinner made in just one pot. Tender pasta simmers directly in a rich tomato sauce with seasoned ground beef, milk, fresh spinach, and melted cheese for a comforting, flavorful meal ready in about 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • large deep skillet or pot
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • measuring cups
  • knife
  • cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g ground beef
  • 200 g penne pasta
  • 400 ml tomato sauce
  • 400 ml water or beef broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the tomato sauce, water or beef broth, and milk. Stir to combine and season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the uncooked pasta and stir to ensure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
  • Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
  • Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and keep the heat at medium-low to avoid scorching the milk. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of warm water or broth. Stop cooking when pasta is al dente for the best texture. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3–4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Add a splash of milk or water when reheating to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 720mgFiber: 4gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 3.5mg
Keyword creamy tomato pasta, easy weeknight dinner, one pot beef pasta, one-pot pasta, pasta with beef
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