Pot ground beef pasta has become my go-to for those nights when dinner needs to be both comforting and incredibly simple. I remember one chaotic Tuesday evening, staring into the fridge, realizing I had barely any time to cook. I pulled out some ground beef and pasta, and within 30 minutes, the most amazing aroma filled my kitchen. This easy ground beef pasta recipe is truly a lifesaver, transforming basic ingredients into a soul-warming meal. Learning how to make ground beef pasta this way has changed my weeknight dinners forever. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Pot Ground Beef Pasta
You’re going to adore this simple yet satisfying meal. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Incredible Flavor: It’s a hearty ground beef pasta dish that’s packed with savory taste.
- Super Quick Prep: With only 10 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is a huge bonus, making this a fantastic ground beef pasta casserole.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, inexpensive ingredients for a cost-effective meal.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters will love this comforting beef and noodle bake.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite veggies or spices.
- A True Comfort: It’s the ultimate ground beef pasta comfort food for any occasion.
- Effortless Dinner: This recipe makes a delicious ground beef pasta casserole without the fuss.
Ingredients for Pot Ground Beef Pasta
This simple ground beef and pasta skillet comes together with just a few pantry staples. The beauty of this recipe is its straightforward approach. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef – Choose 80/20 for the best flavor and moisture.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – This adds a sweet aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that essential savory punch.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes – These form the rich sauce base.
- 4 cups beef broth – This liquid cooks the pasta and creates the sauce.
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni or penne) – Pick your favorite shape; they all work wonderfully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a classic Italian herb note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil – Complements the oregano with its slightly sweet, peppery flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – For a creamy, cheesy finish that makes it extra comforting.
How to Make Pot Ground Beef Pasta
Let’s get this delicious pot ground beef pasta simmering! This is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a hearty meal with minimal fuss. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create this satisfying dish.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the 1 pound ground beef and cook over medium-high heat. Break it up as it browns. Once it’s nicely browned, drain off any excess grease.
- Step 2: Now, toss in the 1 medium onion, chopped, and sauté it with the beef until it starts to soften, which usually takes about 5 minutes. The kitchen will start to smell amazing! Next, add the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 more minute until you can really smell that fragrant garlic.
- Step 3: It’s time to build the sauce! Stir in the 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 4 cups beef broth, and the 12 ounces uncooked pasta. I love using elbow macaroni, but penne works beautifully too for these one pot ground beef noodles. Add the 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1/2 teaspoon dried basil. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Bring this wonderful mixture to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer. You’ll want to let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. Give it a stir every so often to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom – this is key for perfect one pot ground beef noodles. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened up nicely.
- Step 5: If you’re feeling cheesy (and who wouldn’t!), stir in the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it’s all melted and gooey, creating a wonderfully creamy texture that makes this dish pure ground beef pasta comfort food.
- Step 6: Serve this delicious one pot ground beef noodles hot and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Pro Tips for the Best Pot Ground Beef Pasta
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tips for the perfect pot ground beef pasta every time!
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the beef; cook it in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. The broth can vary in saltiness, so tasting is crucial for this easy ground beef pasta recipe.
- Let the pasta rest for a few minutes after cooking before stirring in cheese. This allows the cheese to melt more evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more beef broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
What’s the secret to perfect Pot Ground Beef Pasta?
The secret is creating a flavorful base by properly browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics. Using good quality crushed tomatoes and beef broth builds a rich sauce, making it true ground beef pasta comfort food. For more tips on building flavor, check out this guide on making great pan sauces.
Can I make Pot Ground Beef Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the ingredients (except the pasta and cheese) up to a day in advance. Store the beef, onion, garlic, tomatoes, and broth mixture in the pot in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, add the pasta and liquid, then proceed with the recipe.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pot Ground Beef Pasta?
A common pitfall is undercooking or overcooking the pasta. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Also, don’t skip browning the beef properly; it adds essential depth of flavor to this skillet ground beef pasta dinner.
Best Ways to Serve Pot Ground Beef Pasta
This versatile pot ground beef pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to make it even more special. For a truly satisfying experience, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the pasta. Another fantastic option is some crusty garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. This makes for a truly hearty ground beef pasta dish that the whole family will love. You could also add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for extra color and nutrients.
Nutrition Facts for Pot Ground Beef Pasta
This hearty dish offers a satisfying balance of protein and carbohydrates. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving, which is approximately 1/6 of the entire recipe:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for cheese or different pasta types. For more information on general nutrition, you can consult resources like the National Nutrition Portal.
How to Store and Reheat Pot Ground Beef Pasta
I’ve found that this pot ground beef pasta is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Once it’s cooled down completely, transfer the leftovers into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. This is great for when you need quick ground beef pasta bake ideas for busy weeks. To reheat, you can gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or broth, or microwave individual portions until heated through. Both methods work great for bringing this hearty dish back to life!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Ground Beef Pasta
What kind of pasta is best for this skillet ground beef pasta dinner?
While elbow macaroni and penne are classic choices that work wonderfully, feel free to experiment! Rotini, farfalle (bow-tie pasta), or even shells will hold the sauce well. Just ensure the pasta is suitable for cooking directly in the sauce for this one pot pasta with ground beef.
Can I make this a ground beef pasta casserole with a crunchy topping?
Absolutely! For an extra layer of texture, after the pasta is cooked and the cheese is melted, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter or more cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly. This turns your skillet ground beef pasta dinner into a delightful bake.
My sauce seems too thin. What can I do?
No worries if your sauce is a bit too liquidy! The key is to let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes after the pasta is cooked. This allows some of the excess moisture to evaporate, naturally thickening the sauce. Stir frequently during this time to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking for this hearty ground beef pasta dish.
How can I make this a healthier ground beef pasta recipe?
You can easily lighten this up! Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Load up on extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers added with the onions. Using whole wheat pasta or legume-based pasta will also boost fiber and protein content, making it a more nutritious option.
Variations of Pot Ground Beef Pasta You Can Try
This recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also a wonderful base for customization! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary needs, you’ve got plenty of options. Here are a few ideas to make this beef pasta one pot meal your own:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic for a touch of heat. For even more spice, try a diced jalapeño along with the onion.
- Vegetable Powerhouse: Boost the nutrients by adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the onion. They cook down beautifully and add great flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Beyond cheddar, try adding a dollop of cream cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese in the last few minutes of cooking for an extra creamy texture.
- Lighter Option: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You could also use whole wheat pasta or a legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein.
Pot Ground Beef Pasta: 6 Amazing Tips
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A simple and hearty one pot ground beef pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This easy ground beef pasta recipe combines savory ground beef with pasta and a flavorful sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni or penne)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked pasta, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve this delicious one pot ground beef noodles hot.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings.
- You can add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onion.
- This ground beef and pasta skillet is great for meal prep; leftovers store well in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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