Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Pasta

Creamy tomato ground beef pasta recipe
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Looking for a cozy, satisfying dinner that’s quick and easy to make? Look no further than this creamy tomato ground beef pasta! It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or even a weekend family dinner.

The combination of tender pasta, juicy ground beef, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce will make your taste buds sing.

This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish is simple to make and will hit the spot.

Plus, with the colder months upon us, there’s no better time to enjoy a warm, creamy pasta dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Let’s dive into why this creamy tomato ground beef pasta should be your next go-to dinner recipe. It’s comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying – a meal everyone in your family will love.

The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal that doesn’t take forever.


Why You’ll Love It

This creamy tomato ground beef pasta will quickly become a favorite for many reasons.

  • It’s super easy to make, even for beginners.
  • The creamy tomato sauce is rich and velvety, perfectly complementing the hearty ground beef and pasta.
  • The dish also combines flavors that are universally loved—tangy tomatoes, savory beef, and an irresistible creamy texture.
  • Not only is it delicious, but it’s also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or add in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to make it even heartier.
  • Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, so there’s less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that?

Ingredients List

For the pasta:

  • 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, or rotini work great)
  • Salt (for the pasta water)

For the sauce:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz / 170 g) tomato paste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

This creamy tomato ground beef pasta is a comforting dish that everyone will love, whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet meal at home. The combination of creamy sauce, savory ground beef, and delicious pasta makes this dish a winner every time!

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these kitchen tools ready:

  • A large pot (for boiling the pasta)
  • A large skillet or sauté pan (for cooking the ground beef and making the sauce)
  • A colander (to drain the pasta)
  • A spatula or wooden spoon (for stirring)
  • A measuring cup (for the heavy cream)
  • A grater (if you’re using Parmesan cheese)
  • A sharp knife (for chopping the onion and garlic)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:

  • In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
  • Add a pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
  • Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

2. Cook the ground beef:

  • While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
  • Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Make the sauce:

  • To the cooked beef, add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the tomatoes:

  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and heavy cream.
  • Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Add the dried oregano, basil, and salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine pasta and sauce:

  • Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce.
  • Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes for everything to come together.

6. Finish and serve:

  • If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and serve hot! You can also garnish with fresh herbs like basil for a pop of color and extra flavor.

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creamy tomato ground beef

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Brown the beef well: Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly for the best flavor. This will give the dish a deeper, richer taste.
  • Don’t skip the simmering step: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop. The longer it simmers, the more the ingredients come together!
  • Use a good pasta: Choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce well. Penne or rigatoni works wonderfully because the sauce can settle in the ridges.
  • Make it extra creamy: For an extra creamy sauce, add more heavy cream or even a little cream cheese to thicken the sauce.
  • Customize it: Add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make the dish more hearty. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Save time: If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese instead of grating it yourself, but fresh cheese will give you the best flavor!

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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  • Ground beef: You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version. Ground pork is also a good option for a slightly different flavor.
  • Heavy cream: If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce may not be as thick and creamy. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute.
  • Pasta: Feel free to use any pasta you like. If you prefer gluten-free pasta, there are plenty of options available in most grocery stores. You can also use pasta alternatives like zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb version.
  • Tomato paste: If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use extra crushed tomatoes, but the sauce will be a bit thinner. A tablespoon of tomato sauce can work in a pinch too.
  • Parmesan cheese: You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a different cheesy flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be sprinkled on top for a cheesy taste.
  • Herbs and seasonings: If you don’t have oregano or basil, try Italian seasoning or a mix of thyme, rosemary, and parsley. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

  • Salad: Pair the creamy tomato ground beef pasta with a light green salad. A simple arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich pasta well.
  • Garlic bread: Nothing beats a side of crispy garlic bread with a creamy pasta dish. It’s perfect for dipping into that flavorful sauce.
  • Steamed veggies: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted zucchini for a balanced meal. The vegetables add a nice crunch and contrast to the creamy pasta.
  • Wine: If you enjoy wine, pair this dish with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a white wine such as Chardonnay for a refreshing complement.
creamy tomato ground beef pasta

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the creamy tomato ground beef pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the cream sauce might separate a bit when reheated. Store the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing to avoid condensation.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat and stir occasionally, adding a splash of milk or cream to help bring the sauce back to life. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through, until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, just add a little water or cream to loosen it.

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FAQ

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge and combine when ready to serve. This will allow the flavors to develop even more!

2. Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute will work well in this recipe.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any dairy-free cream alternative. Use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a fully dairy-free meal.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker? If you want a thicker sauce, try adding a tablespoon of tomato paste or a little bit of cream cheese. Letting the sauce simmer for a longer time will also help thicken it naturally.

5. Is this recipe good for leftovers? Yes! This dish reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for a few days. It’s also great for meal prep if you need a quick meal later in the week.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

Creamy tomato ground beef pasta recipe

Creamy Tomato Ground Beef Pasta

Looking for a cozy, satisfying dinner that's quick and easy to make? Look no further than this creamy tomato ground beef pasta! It's the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or even a weekend family dinner. The combination of tender pasta, juicy ground beef, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce will make your taste buds sing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • A large pot
  • A large skillet or sauté pan
  • A colander
  • A spatula or wooden spoon
  • A measuring cup
  • A grater
  • A sharp knife

Ingredients
  

For the pasta:

  • 12 oz 340 g of your favorite pasta (penne, spaghetti, or rotini work great)
  • Salt for the pasta water

For the sauce:

  • 1 lb 450 g ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz / 400 g crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 6 oz / 170 g tomato paste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional for extra creaminess

Instructions
 

Cook the pasta:

  • In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
  • Add a pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
  • Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Cook the ground beef:

  • While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
  • Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Make the sauce:

  • To the cooked beef, add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the tomatoes:

  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and heavy cream.
  • Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Add the dried oregano, basil, and salt and pepper to taste.

Combine pasta and sauce:

  • Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce.
  • Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes for everything to come together.

Finish and serve:

  • If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and serve hot! You can also garnish with fresh herbs like basil for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Notes

Nutritional Value (per serving)

This is an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities used:
  • Calories: ~450-500 kcal
  • Protein: ~25g 
  • Fat: ~20g 
  • Carbohydrates: ~50g 
  • Fiber: ~4g 
  • Sugar: ~6g 
  • Sodium: ~600mg
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword ground beef recipes, pasta recipes, quick dinner recipes, tomato ground beef pasta

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