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Creamy One-Pot Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta

creamy one-pot cheesy ground beef pasta - featured image

A quick and easy one-pot pasta recipe combining ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and tender pasta for a comforting and delicious dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 3 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100g)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onion is translucent and fragrant.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen flavors.
  4. Pour in 3 cups beef broth and 1 can diced tomatoes with juices. Stir in 8 ounces uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through. Pasta should be tender but not mushy.
  6. Lower heat to low. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar, 4 ounces cream cheese, and ½ cup milk. Stir until cheeses melt and sauce is creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

If sauce is too thick, add more broth or milk to loosen. If too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce. Drain excess fat after browning beef for less grease. Stir pasta halfway through simmering to prevent sticking. Use fresh garlic and good quality sharp cheddar for best flavor. Can substitute gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese alternatives for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, cheesy pasta, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, creamy pasta, comfort food