Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love that everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup quick and easy.

I enjoy how the ground beef, broccoli, and pasta come together for a complete meal.

I appreciate that this recipe is ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.

I like using simple ingredients that I usually have in my kitchen.

I find that the leftovers reheat well, making this recipe great for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

lean ground beef
broccoli florets
pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
onion, diced
garlic, minced
beef broth
milk
shredded cheddar cheese
grated Parmesan cheese
olive oil
Italian seasoning
paprika
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional)
fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

I heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
I cook the diced onion until it softens, then stir in the minced garlic.
I add the ground beef and cook until it is browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
I drain any excess grease if necessary.
I stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
I pour in the beef broth and milk, then add the uncooked pasta.
I bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let the pasta simmer, stirring occasionally.
I add the broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking so they become tender but still vibrant.
I stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
I garnish the pasta with fresh parsley and serve it while hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version.

I enjoy adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra vegetables.

I like using mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a different cheesy flavor.

I occasionally stir in a splash of heavy cream to make the sauce even richer.

I sometimes add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when I want a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

I freeze individual portions for up to 2 months, although the pasta may become slightly softer after thawing.

I reheat the pasta on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or beef broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes. I use frozen broccoli when I need a convenient option, and I add it during the last few minutes of cooking so it stays tender without becoming overcooked.

What type of pasta works best?

I like using penne, rotini, or medium shells because they hold the creamy sauce well and cook evenly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it with a little extra broth or milk before serving.

Can I make this recipe without dairy?

Yes. I replace the milk with a dairy-free alternative and use my favorite dairy-free shredded cheese for a similar creamy texture.

How do I keep the pasta from becoming too dry?

I add a small splash of milk or broth while reheating, and I stir frequently until the sauce becomes creamy again.

Conclusion

I enjoy making Easy One Pot Ground Beef and Broccoli Pasta because it is a simple, filling meal that delivers comforting flavors with very little cleanup. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dinner that my family always enjoys. Whether I make it for a busy weeknight or prepare it ahead for easy lunches, this one-pot recipe is always a dependable favorite.

Easy One Pot Ground Beef and Broccoli Pasta

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This Easy One Pot Ground Beef and Broccoli Pasta is a hearty, comforting dinner made with seasoned ground beef, tender broccoli, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce. Everything cooks in one pot for an easy weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: One Pot
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Cook the diced onion until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if needed.
Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
Pour in the beef broth and milk, then add the uncooked pasta.
Bring to a gentle boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is nearly tender.
Add the broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking and continue simmering until tender-crisp.
Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra vegetables.
Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor.
Stir in a splash of heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
Add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months, though the pasta may soften slightly after thawing.
Reheat with a splash of milk or beef broth to restore the creamy consistency.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 560 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 760 mg
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 38 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg