Description
Classic Beef Pasta with Tomato Sauce is a hearty and comforting dish, featuring savory ground beef, aromatic garlic, and a rich tomato sauce. A quick, satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
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)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water if needed for the sauce.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes).
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Spicy Beef Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Veggie Version: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for more veggies and added nutrition.
- Cheesy Pasta Bake: Top the pasta with shredded mozzarella and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
