One-Pot Beefy Pasta (No-Boil, No-Fuss)
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Some nights call for something simple. No fancy ingredients. No multiple pans. Just a hearty, comforting dinner that fills hungry stomachs and brings everyone back to the table for seconds.
This One-Pot Beef Pasta was one of those “use what we have” dinners, a couple pounds of ground beef, pasta from the pantry, and a jar of marinara. I tossed it together in one skillet, let it simmer, topped it with a little cheese… and it was a hit. The kind of hit where the pan is scraped clean and someone asks, “Are we having this again?”
If you need a budget-friendly, protein-packed meal that feeds a family well (especially one with growing or athletic appetites), this one deserves a spot in your rotation.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef
12–16 oz pasta (ziti, penne, rotini, or whatever you have)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
2–3 cups water or beef broth
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1–2 cups shredded mozzarella (optional)
½ cup Parmesan (shaker works perfectly)
Optional add-ins (if you have them):
Diced onion
Bell peppers
Spinach
Ricotta or cream cheese
Fresh basil
Directions
In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess grease if needed.
If using diced onion or peppers, sauté them with the beef.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
Pour in the marinara sauce. Add 2–3 cups water or broth (enough to fully cover the pasta once added). Stir.
Bring to a gentle boil.
Stir in the dry pasta. Make sure it’s mostly submerged in liquid.
Cover and simmer on medium-low for 12–18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook until pasta is tender and sauce thickens. Add a splash more water if needed.
Stir in Parmesan.
If using mozzarella:
Sprinkle on top
Cover for 2–3 minutes until melted
Optional: Broil 2–3 minutes for that baked look.
FAQ’s
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Simply skip the mozzarella and Parmesan, or use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative. The pasta is still flavorful and hearty without it.
How do I make this creamier?
Stir in 2–4 ounces of cream cheese or a scoop of ricotta at the end of cooking. It adds richness and gives it a baked ziti-style texture.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Diced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach work beautifully. Add firm vegetables when browning the beef. Stir in spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes. Let it cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
How can I make it higher protein?
Use the full 2 pounds of ground beef, or swap half for ground turkey. You can also stir in a can of drained white beans for an extra protein boost.
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Hi, I’m Regina of The Faithful Feast. I'm also a writer and catering business owner. I live in the Buckeye State with my wonderful family, where our weekends are often filled with football games and faith-filled conversations. I’m passionate about encouraging women to notice God’s goodness in everyday life, especially over a cozy cup of tea. Whether I’m sharing a soul-warming recipe or writing words that encourage you, my heart is to inspire you to find joy and purpose right where you are.
