Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful dinner, Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is the perfect dish. With tender ground beef, a rich tomato sauce seasoned with classic Italian herbs, and pasta, this meal brings all the comforting flavors of traditional Italian cooking straight to your table. It’s simple to make, yet so satisfying, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a dish to serve to guests.

The best part about this recipe is that it uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs creates a savory sauce that perfectly coats your pasta, while the grated Parmesan adds a delightful finishing touch. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce delivers delicious results in just 35 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is ready in just 35 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Packed with Flavor

With the addition of garlic, onion, oregano, and basil, this dish is bursting with rich, savory flavors that pair perfectly with pasta.

3. Budget-Friendly

Made with affordable ingredients, including ground beef, canned tomatoes, and pasta, this dish is cost-effective without compromising on taste.

4. Versatile

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can swap in different types of pasta, add extra veggies, or even use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

5. Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re cooking for a family or entertaining guests, Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is sure to be a hit with everyone. It’s a classic comfort food that appeals to all ages.

Ingredients

• Ground beef (1 lb)
• Onion, chopped (1)
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
• Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz)
• Dried oregano (1 tsp)
• Dried basil (1 tsp)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pasta (12 oz, your choice)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Variations

1. Add Vegetables

For a more nutritious meal, add some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce. These vegetables will add color, flavor, and extra vitamins to your dish.

2. Make It Spicy

If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce or add a chopped fresh chili pepper while cooking the onions and garlic.

3. Use Different Meats

Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage instead of beef. Each option will give the dish a slightly different flavor profile while still being delicious.

4. Vegetarian Version

To make this dish vegetarian, swap out the ground beef for a meat substitute, such as lentils or plant-based ground “beef,” and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

5. Add Cheese to the Sauce

For a creamy twist, stir in some ricotta or mozzarella cheese to the sauce towards the end of cooking. This will create a richer, creamier texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook until the onion is softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Serve the beef and tomato sauce over the cooked pasta. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Don’t Overcook the Beef

When cooking the ground beef, be sure not to overcook it. Brown it until it’s cooked through, but avoid making it dry by cooking it on too high a heat for too long.

2. Season to Taste

Taste your sauce as it cooks and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference. You can also add a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.

3. Use Fresh Garlic for Maximum Flavor

Fresh garlic adds more intense flavor than pre-minced garlic. If possible, mince your garlic just before adding it to the skillet for the best results.

4. Simmer for Extra Flavor

For a richer sauce, let the tomato sauce simmer on low for a longer period of time, up to 30 minutes. This will help the flavors deepen and develop even more.

5. Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Be sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce after draining. This ensures that the pasta won’t be overly soft when served.

How to Serve

This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a complete meal on its own, but you can make it even more satisfying by pairing it with a side salad and some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, would pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef and tomato sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

You can also freeze this dish for later. Allow the pasta and sauce to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat on the stove or in the microwave until warm.

Reheating

When reheating, be sure to add a little water or broth to the sauce to keep it from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of pasta for this dish?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. The sauce will pair well with all of them.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, reheat the sauce, and combine.

3. What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage can be used as alternatives to ground beef. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.

4. Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, the sauce can be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

5. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

6. What can I use if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?

If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can substitute them with diced tomatoes or tomato puree. Just blend them a bit for a smoother texture if needed.

7. How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of tomato paste to thicken it.

8. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce for some extra heat.

9. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Fresh herbs work just as well. Use about 3 teaspoons of fresh oregano and basil for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.

10. Can I serve this with cheese other than Parmesan?

Yes, you can serve this dish with mozzarella, ricotta, or any cheese you like. Fresh mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta can also add a nice touch.

Conclusion

Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make and always satisfying. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful meal that will delight your family or guests. Whether you’re in a rush or enjoying a leisurely dinner, this recipe delivers a rich, savory dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy a delicious, homemade meal tonight!

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