Delicious Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta in 30 Minutes

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Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that brings together the comforting flavors of ground beef, a rich tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare but also tantalizingly delicious, making it a family favorite. The best part? You can cook the pasta right in the sauce, allowing each bite to be infused with flavor. Let’s dive into this creamy, hearty meal that promises to satisfy your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

This dish is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s a one-pot creamy tomato beef pasta recipe that saves time on cleanup. Second, the combination of ground beef and Italian herbs creates a rich tomato beef pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor. Third, it’s versatile; you can customize it with your favorite pasta shapes or add vegetables for extra nutrition. Additionally, it’s a quick creamy tomato beef pasta meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Lastly, it’s a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. With all these benefits, it’s clear why you should choose creamy tomato beef pasta!

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

Gather these items:

1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 onion, finely chopped
500g / 1 lb beef mince / ground beef
2 tsp Italian herbs
2 tbsp tomato paste
400g / 14 oz can crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (chilli flakes, optional)
1 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 cups (1 L) chicken stock / broth, low sodium
350g / 12 oz fusilli, penne, elbow macaroni, or other short pasta
3/4 cups thickened / heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Parsley, finely chopped (optional)

How to Make Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the olive oil on high heat in a large heavy-based pot. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for about 1 1/2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
Step 2: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook thoroughly, breaking it up with a spatula until no pink remains. Stir in the Italian herbs and cook for 30 seconds. Then add the tomato paste and cook for another 1 minute to remove its raw flavor.
Step 3: Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well, then add the pasta directly into the pot.
Step 4: Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes and more frequently towards the end, to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is just tender and has absorbed much of the sauce.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to become creamy and rich but still saucy enough to coat the pasta well.
Step 6: Remove from heat, stir well, and ladle into bowls. Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optional chopped parsley.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use low sodium chicken stock for better control over saltiness. Learn more about using low sodium options.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
For a richer flavor, let the pasta simmer a little longer in the sauce.
Consider adding fresh spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

For a delightful meal, serve this creamy tomato beef pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You can also pair it with a glass of red wine for an elevated dinner experience. For a comforting twist, consider making a creamy tomato and beef pasta bake by transferring the mixture into a baking dish, topping it with cheese, and baking until golden.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to loosen the sauce if needed. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta?

The secret lies in cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all those rich flavors. Also, using fresh ingredients makes a significant difference in taste.

Can I make Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine them when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, stir the pasta frequently while it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the liquid levels as well!

Variations of Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta You Can Try

For a twist, try using different types of pasta such as ziti or fusilli. You can also make a creamy tomato beef spaghetti recipe or swap out the beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian alternative, consider adding beans or lentils to the sauce. This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you choose the right pasta! Explore more variations.