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

Units Scale

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

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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.