Easy One-Pot Cheesy Beef Pasta Recipe
This One-Pot Cheesy Beef Pasta is a creamy, comforting weeknight dinner made with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup. Loaded with tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, it’s the perfect all-in-one skillet meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium yellow or sweet onion finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2½ cups uncooked pasta penne or elbow
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 15 oz can unsweetened tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard or Dijon
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring until softened.
- Stir in pasta, beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ketchup, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar. Mix over low heat until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or chili powder for extra flavor.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts best for a creamy sauce.
- Not freezer-friendly due to dairy content — best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
- Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.