This hearty and flavorful pasta dish is a comfort food classic, with savory ground beef, aromatic garlic, and a rich tomato sauce that perfectly coats each piece of pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just making dinner for yourself, this recipe is quick, satisfying, and full of rich Mediterranean flavors. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef pasta recipe is everything you want in a comforting meal: rich, savory, and full of flavor. The combination of ground beef, garlic, and tomatoes creates a hearty sauce that pairs perfectly with penne or fusilli pasta. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, the optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a final touch of umami and creaminess, making it the perfect cozy dish for any night of the week.

Classic Beef Pasta with Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
500g ground beef (ground chuck for rich flavor, or lean beef for a lighter option)
1 onion, chopped (medium size)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (400g) (Italian herbs or plain, depending on your preference)
2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked)
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a little pasta water to add to the sauce if needed.
Cook the Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes).
Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pan with the beef and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir in the oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the tomato and beef sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, and top with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Beef Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the sauce for an extra kick.
Veggie Version: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for more vegetables and added nutrition.
Cheesy Pasta Bake: After combining the pasta and sauce, top with shredded mozzarella and bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a bit of water or broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner version of this dish. You can also use ground chicken or beef if you prefer.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.

3. How can I make the sauce richer?

For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter right before serving. This will make the sauce smoother and creamier.

4. Can I use canned pasta sauce instead of diced tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute canned pasta sauce or marinara for the diced tomatoes. Just adjust the seasoning to your liking, as store-bought sauces can vary in salt and flavor.

5. How do I make the pasta extra cheesy?

To make it extra cheesy, add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the pasta just before serving, or top the pasta with cheese and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. Can I freeze this pasta dish?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta and sauce together. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

7. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check that your seasonings and canned tomatoes are gluten-free as well.

8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or spinach will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Simply sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

9. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, or use a spicy variety of sausage or ground beef. You could also stir in some hot sauce to taste.

10. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just blanch, peel, and chop them. You’ll need about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes to replace the can of diced tomatoes.

Conclusion

This Classic Beef Pasta with Tomato Sauce is the perfect go-to dish for a satisfying weeknight dinner. With savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a touch of oregano, it’s a delicious and filling meal that the whole family will enjoy. Easy to make, full of flavor, and ready in under an hour—this recipe will quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation!