05/19/2026
ONE-POT BEEF TOMATO PASTA
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can crushed tomatoes, about 14 oz
3 cups beef stock or water
12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.
3. Build the Sauce
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until the beef is coated in the sauce.
4. Add Liquid and Pasta
Pour in the beef stock or water. Add the dry pasta directly into the pot and gently press it into the sauce.
5. Simmer
Bring to a simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is tender and the sauce becomes thick and glossy.
6. Finish
Turn off the heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce.
7. Serve
Top with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, parsley, and a small drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot.
TIPS
- Stir often so the pasta does not stick.
- Add more stock if the sauce gets too thick before the pasta is cooked.
- Use beef and pork together for a richer flavor.
- Finish with fresh basil for a restaurant-style look.