Name: One-Pot Creamy Bolognese Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely diced; 1 carrot, finely diced; 1 celery stick, finely diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 450 g (1 lb) minced beef; 3 tbsp tomato purée (tomato paste); 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 300 ml (1¼ cups) beef stock (or water + 2 stock cubes); 120 ml (½ cup) milk (half-fat or full-fat); 2 x 400 g (14 oz) tins finely chopped tomatoes; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 300 g (10.5 oz) pasta shells; 120 ml (½ cup) double (heavy) cream; 100 g (1 packed cup) grated cheddar; Chopped chives (to serve); Chilli flakes (to serve); Grated parmesan (to serve)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pot pasta recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something filling and flavorful without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The creamy bolognese sauce with tender pasta shells makes each bite comforting and indulgent. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

For the Bolognese:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely diced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stick, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
450 g (1 lb) minced beef
3 tbsp tomato purée (tomato paste)
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
300 ml (1¼ cups) beef stock (or water + 2 stock cubes)
120 ml (½ cup) milk (half-fat or full-fat)
2 x 400 g (14 oz) tins finely chopped tomatoes
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For the Pasta:

300 g (10.5 oz) pasta shells
120 ml (½ cup) double (heavy) cream
100 g (1 packed cup) grated cheddar

To Serve:

Chopped chives
Chilli flakes
Grated parmesan

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

One-Pot Creamy Bolognese Pasta

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Beef

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the minced beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned all over.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Stir in the tomato purée, oregano, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, beef stock, milk, chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, stirring to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta shells to the pan. Return to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 17–22 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Remove the lid and stir in the double cream and grated cheddar. Mix until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce becomes creamy and rich.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the creamy bolognese pasta into bowls and top with chopped chives, a pinch of chili flakes, and a sprinkle of grated parmesan for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the minced beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the bolognese for additional texture and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or diced fresh chili to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It also reheats well, so it’s great for meal prep.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, or stir in a little more grated cheese to thicken it up.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this creamy bolognese pasta. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, swap the double cream and cheddar with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Bolognese Pasta is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender pasta shells, savory bolognese sauce, and creamy cheese, it’s a dish that will please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to make in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.