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Discover the ultimate one pot pasta recipe featuring your favourite mince, fresh tomatoes, and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting and versatile dish is sure to become your go-to dinner.
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Pasta Recipe
If you’re constantly on the hunt for a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare, this one pot pasta recipe is your answer. Not only does it combine protein, vegetables, and pasta in one convenient dish, but it also minimizes clean-up—a blessing on busy weeknights.
Key Benefits:
- Convenience: All ingredients are cooked in one pot, reducing preparation time and cleanup.
- Versatility: Customize with your choice of mince (beef, chicken, or lamb) and swap in any vegetables you have on hand.
- Rich Flavor: A robust tomato sauce infused with herbs and a creamy cheese finish makes this dish incredibly comforting.
- Time-Saving: Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, this recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
This dish not only serves as a delicious dinner but also doubles as a hearty lunch option for the next day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Mince:500 grams of your preferred mince (beef, chicken, or lamb)
- Onion:1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced/crushed
- cooking oil
- Herbs: Rosemary & mixed herbs. (skip this or use whatever herbs you have)
- salt – 2 teaspoons and more if you need it
- sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Tomato Paste – 3 Tablespoons (Alternate Option: Grate 2 carrots if you’re out of tomato paste.)
- 2 cans of crushed tomatoes (Alternative: Use whole peeled tomatoes or about 3 fresh tomatoes, finely chopped)
- 500 grams pack of Pasta – any kind will do!.
- Vegetables (Optional)- 1-2 cups of frozen or fresh vegetables (e.g., green beans, peas, or mixed vegetables)
Directions
- Heat the Pot:
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to coat the bottom.
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-4 minutes. - Brown the Mince
Add your chosen mince to the pot. Use a spoon to break up the meat into smaller pieces. Sprinkle in your dried rosemary and mixed herbs. Stir well to combine, ensuring the herbs infuse the mince with flavour. Allow the meat to develop a good brown colour for deeper flavour. - Build the Tomato Sauce
Mix in the tomato paste (or grated carrots, if substituting). Stir the mixture until the paste is evenly distributed. If you’re including frozen vegetables, now is the time to add them. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, allowing their flavours to meld with the meat. Add the cans of crushed tomatoes (or your prepared fresh tomatoes) to the pot. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes.
Adjust salt and sugar based on your preference. A balanced seasoning is key—taste the sauce and add a little more if needed. - Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Pour in 1-2 cups of water to help the pasta cook evenly in the sauce. Stir to combine.
Add the dried pasta straight from the packet into the sauce. The pasta will absorb the liquid as it cooks. Follow the cooking time indicated on the pasta package. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. - Liquid Adjustments:
If you notice the sauce thickening too quickly or the pasta isn’t fully cooked, add water in half-cup increments until the desired consistency is achieved. - Finish with Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has reduced, turn off the heat. Stir in the grated cheese until it melts and blends into the sauce, adding a creamy texture. - Garnish:
For an extra burst of flavour and presentation, sprinkle a little more cheese over the top just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing:
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. - Meal Prep:
This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.