Cheesy and easy, this one pot creamy beef pasta is a must for any busy weeknight. With minimal effort, you'll have this comforting and delicious dish on your dinner table in just 30 minutes! Plus, it's a big hit with kiddos and parents alike 😎.

Y'all remember hamburger helper? Yes no maybe so? How about a fresher, tastier, just as easy copy-cat (ish) version? The epitome of comfort food, this one pot creamy beef pasta is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Whether you're a busy parent trying to please picky eaters or simply in need of a quick and delicious dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!
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Why You'll Love This Dish
This one pot creamy beef pasta checks ALL the boxes:
- It's a one pot wonder! Done from start to finish in a single skillet. Easy clean up and less mess.
- No oven required! Whip up this recipe entirely on your stove top.
- It's the ultimate comfort mood. Cheesy pasta shells with juicy beef in a creamy sauce? Yes please!
- In my humble opinion, everyone in the family loves it! Picky toddlers, tweens, adults, you name it.
- It only takes 30 minutes. Seriously, just 30 minutes.
One pot, stove top, comforting, family friendly, 30 minute dinner?? The ultimate win!

Tips and Variations
Be mindful of the pasta cooking time: Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture. Shoot for al dente, or pasta with a slight "bite" to it.
Play around with seasoning: If you want to give it a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Craving some smokiness? Give it a couple extra shakes of paprika!
Opt for a vegetarian option: Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth and omit the beef for a simple creamy tomato pasta dish. If you need a protein, kidney beans work well! Also, feel free to add some extra veggies - sliced cremini mushrooms, leafy greens, and broccoli are all good additions.

Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. First, let it cool completely. Then transfer the cooled pasta into a freezer-safe container/individual portions and seal tightly. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it thoroughly before serving. Give it a good stir as the sauce will have thickened up a bit.
For sure! Scroll up to the tips and variations section for more info.
Yes, you can! This one pot creamy beef pasta can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed. Simply cook the dish as instructed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen up the sauce if necessary.
Any more questions? Leave me a comment below!


One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 to 6 1x
Description
Cheesy and easy, this one pot creamy beef pasta is a must for any busy weeknight. With minimal effort, you'll have this comforting and delicious dish on your dinner table in just 30 minutes! Plus, it's a big hit with kiddos and parents alike 😎.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons red wine or red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk (I used non-fat milk but any kind of fat content will work)
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 cups medium or sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add the beef and onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and onion is starting to soften, about 5 minutes. Drain extra liquid as necessary.
- If needed, add one more tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until tomato paste starts to brown.
- Add wine or red wine vinegar to the skillet. Cook 1 minute, stirring frequently and scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.
- Distribute the pasta shells evenly in the skillet. Pour tomato sauce, milk, and beef broth over the pasta. Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook until pasta is al dente, about 9-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheese and add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley as desired. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
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