Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this meal is ready in about 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- One-Pot Convenience: Everything cooks in a single skillet, simplifying cleanup.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein, vegetables, and dairy, it offers a well-rounded meal.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables or different types of cheese.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 cup carrot, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10-12 oz lean ground beef
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups uncooked bow tie pasta (farfalle) or pasta of choice
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1½-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Grate the zucchini, dice the carrots, onion, and mushrooms. Set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and ground beef. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, breaking the beef into smaller pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced onions, carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms into the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Season: Add chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, and whole milk. Stir in the tomato paste until fully combined.
- Simmer: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
- Incorporate Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Additional Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding spinach, bell peppers, or kale to increase flavor and nutritional content.
- Cheese Options: For cheese lovers, consider incorporating different varieties like mozzarella for a unique taste.
- Pasta Alternatives: Swap regular pasta for whole grain or legume-based options to add fiber or protein.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the pasta has absorbed too much sauce.
- Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
2. Is there a dairy-free option?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, such as broth and seasonings, are gluten-free.
4. How can I add more protein?
Incorporate additional protein by adding cooked lentils or using a higher protein pasta made from legumes.
5. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend can be used for a different flavor profile.
6. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve.
7. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Be sure to monitor the cooking time closely and remove the skillet from heat once the pasta is al dente.
Print
Pasta with Veggies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One-Pot Hamburger Pasta with Veggies is a hearty and family-friendly dish made with ground beef, fresh vegetables, creamy cheddar cheese, and bow tie pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, this flavorful and nutritious meal is perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 cup carrot, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10–12 oz lean ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups uncooked bow tie pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1½–2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Grate zucchini and dice carrots, onion, and mushrooms. Set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it into smaller pieces, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in diced onion, carrot, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until vegetables start to soften.
- Season: Add chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in uncooked pasta, beef broth, and milk. Stir in tomato paste until combined.
- Simmer: Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use whole grain or legume-based pasta for extra fiber or protein.
- Add vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for more nutrients.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
