This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy family meal. Packed with tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is as flavorful as it is satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under an hour.
- Family-friendly: A classic flavor combination that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile: Use your favorite pasta shape or customize the seasonings to suit your taste.
- Budget-friendly: Simple, accessible ingredients make this an economical meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Pasta of choice (e.g., penne, spaghetti, or rotini)
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Onion
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy option: Add shredded mozzarella or grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
- Vegetable boost: Include diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Herb swap: Experiment with oregano, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Freezing: Freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta al dente and avoid overcooking when combining it with the sauce.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Blanch, peel, and blend them before adding to the sauce.
What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe?
Any short or long pasta works well, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook the pasta fresh before serving.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, the sauce freezes well. Cook and freeze it separately from the pasta for the best texture.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely, ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for a lighter version.
How can I thicken the sauce?
Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or add a bit of tomato paste.
What can I serve with Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce?
Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I add more flavor to the sauce?
Enhance the flavor with a splash of red wine, balsamic vinegar, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, using a high-quality marinara sauce can save time while still providing great flavor.
Conclusion
Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a timeless recipe that combines hearty ingredients with rich flavors for a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile, satisfying, and easy to make. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting bowl of pasta that will quickly become a family favorite!
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Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz/170g) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces (340g) pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well)
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Let it cook together for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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