Name: Quick and Easy One Pot Penne Bolognese for Busy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (Substitution: Opt for ground turkey for a lighter flavor.); 3 cloves Garlic (Feel free to use both fresh and powdered garlic.); 2 cups Beef Broth (Substitution: Chicken or vegetable broth works great too.); 24 ounces Spaghetti Sauce (Tip: Use your favorite jarred sauce.); 8 ounces Penne Pasta (You can swap it for any pasta you have on hand.); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella (Substitution: Cheddar cheese for a different flavor.); Fresh Basil; Garlic Powder; Red Pepper Flakes

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Just the sight of bubbling marinara brings me back to those cozy weeknight dinners, where the aroma of flavor-filled pasta wafts through the house and a sense of comfort settles in. That’s exactly what my One Pot Ground Beef and Penne Pasta Bolognese delivers—a warm hug in a bowl, ready in under 20 minutes!

After a long day, the last thing anyone wants is another appearance from takeout menus. Instead, this recipe effortlessly marries ground beef with tender penne, coated in a rich, savory sauce. And the best part? You can customize it to your taste—swap in ground turkey for a lighter fare or toss in some veggies for an extra health boost. Minimal cleanup, maximum satisfaction—who could ask for more? Let’s dive into this quick and easy delight that is sure to become your new go-to on busy nights!

Why is One Pot Penne Bolognese a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its Finest: With just one pot, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

Quick Cooking: This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.

Customizable Options: Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add in veggies like bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Rich, Comforting Flavor: The hearty meat sauce combined with gooey mozzarella creates a satisfying experience that the whole family will love.

Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples and budget cuts of meat, this recipe is gentle on your wallet without sacrificing taste.

You’ll find that this One Pot Penne Bolognese is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to simple yet delicious dining!

One Pot Penne Bolognese Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

Ground Beef – A classic protein choice that adds depth to your sauce. Substitution: Opt for ground turkey for a lighter flavor.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness. Feel free to use both fresh and powdered garlic.
Beef Broth – Keeps everything moist and enhances the meatiness. Substitution: Chicken or vegetable broth works great too.
Spaghetti Sauce – The essential base of your Bolognese, delivering that iconic taste. Tip: Use your favorite jarred sauce for an effortless approach.

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta – A perfect shape that hugs the sauce and adds hearty textures. Note: You can swap it for any pasta you have on hand.

For Extra Creaminess

Shredded Mozzarella – Melts beautifully and adds a creamy finish. Substitution: Cheddar cheese for a different flavor or cream cheese for even more creaminess.

Optional Seasonings

Fresh Basil – Brightens up the flavor profile.
Garlic Powder – Enhances the garlic flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a touch of heat to your liking.

This One Pot Penne Bolognese is all about quick and delicious family dinners, making your weeknight cooking a breeze!

How to Make One Pot Penne Bolognese

Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease for a cleaner dish.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until aromatic, making sure it doesn’t burn.
Pour Broth: Add the beef broth to the skillet and bring it to a gentle boil, about 2-3 minutes, for a flavorful base.
Mix in Pasta: Stir in the penne pasta, pressing down gently to make sure it’s fully submerged in the broth, allowing it to soak up the flavors as it cooks.
Cook Pasta: Boil the mixture for 7-8 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, creating a rich sauce.
Incorporate Sauce: Mix in your spaghetti sauce, stirring well to ensure everything is fully combined. Heat it through for about 2-3 minutes.
Add Cheese: Finally, sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully into the dish. Serve warm!

Optional: Top with fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with One Pot Penne Bolognese?

When creating a cozy family meal, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your One Pot Penne Bolognese experience.

Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crust pairs perfectly with the rich tomato sauce, providing a crunchy contrast to the tender pasta.
Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balance to your hearty dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring both color and nutrition, complementing the flavors of your Bolognese beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese adds an extra salty richness, enhancing the overall flavor and presentation of your meal.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine ties the meal together, its boldness balancing the rich meat sauce.
Chocolate Pudding: End your evening with a decadent homemade chocolate pudding, offering a sweet finish that leaves your family satisfied and happy.

Combining these items with your One Pot Penne Bolognese will create a harmonious dining experience that warms hearts and fills bellies.

Make Ahead Options

These One Pot Ground Beef and Penne Pasta Bolognese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the beef broth and set out your penne and sauce, making it easy to throw everything together when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to give the beef a quick reheat before adding the broth and pasta. For best results, finish the cooking and cheese melting process just before serving, ensuring each bite is just as delicious and comforting as the first!

Helpful Tricks for One Pot Penne Bolognese

Even Cooking: Stir the penne pasta occasionally while it cooks to ensure even cooking and avoid sticking.
Avoiding Burnt Garlic: Always add garlic after the beef is browned to prevent it from burning, enhancing the flavor of your One Pot Penne Bolognese.
Grease Drain: Don’t skip draining excess grease from the beef; it helps create a lighter sauce without sacrificing flavor.
Texture Control: If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add a splash more broth or extra spaghetti sauce towards the end.
Batch Cooking: Consider making a double batch for meal prep. It stores well, so you have easy dinners on hand for hectic days ahead!

Storage Tips for One Pot Penne Bolognese

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: This One Pot Penne Bolognese freezes well; transfer it to airtight containers and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

Portioning: Consider dividing into single servings before freezing for easy meal options on busy nights.

One Pot Penne Bolognese Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with simple swaps and vibrant twists that elevate this dish!

Turkey Love: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner, lighter option that still packs in flavor.
Whole Wheat Delight: Opt for whole wheat penne pasta for a healthier hit of fiber that keeps you satisfied longer.
Veggie Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the mix, adding colors, nutrients, and extra flavors.
Cheesy Goodness: Swap shredded mozzarella for ricotta or cottage cheese for a creamy texture that still hugs the pasta beautifully.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne for a kick that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.
Creamy Comfort: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for an ultra-rich and decadent sauce.
Leftover Magic: Transform leftover beef or any cooked protein into this dish for a quick, satisfying meal without starting from scratch.

With these delightful variations, your One Pot Penne Bolognese will become a versatile canvas for whatever you’re craving!

One Pot Penne Bolognese Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ground beef for my One Pot Penne Bolognese?
When selecting ground beef, look for meat that is bright red in color and has a fine texture. It’s ideal to choose 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for a good balance of flavor and juiciness. If you notice any dark spots, it’s best to avoid that package as it may be older.

What is the best way to store leftovers from this recipe?
Store your One Pot Penne Bolognese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing it to preserve freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze it; just ensure it’s in an airtight container and consume within 3 months for the best flavor.

Can I freeze One Pot Penne Bolognese, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Ensure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and use within 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture.

What if my garlic is burning during cooking?
If you notice your garlic is burning, it may be that the beef wasn’t drained properly or that the pan is too hot. To avoid this, always add garlic after browning the beef and drain any excess grease. Cook the garlic on medium heat for just 1-2 minutes until fragrant, which will enhance your One Pot Penne Bolognese without the bitter taste of burnt garlic.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! You can easily swap regular penne pasta with gluten-free penne made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Just ensure to cook it according to the package directions, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking times. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious bowl of One Pot Penne Bolognese!

Is this dish safe for my pets?
While it’s best to avoid feeding your pets pasta or seasoned meals, plain ground beef in small amounts can be safe for dogs. Just be sure there are no added onion or garlic in the portion you give them, as those can be harmful to pets. Always check with your vet before sharing any human food with your furry friends!