Ground beef pasta is like a warm hug on a plate, full of hearty flavors and comforting textures. Picture this: tender pasta twirling around your fork, smothered in a rich, meaty sauce that sings with garlic and herbs. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds and promising a meal that will make even Monday nights feel special.
I remember the first time I made ground beef pasta for my family; it was a chaotic weeknight, and I needed something quick yet delicious. As the savory scent filled the house, my kids came running into the kitchen like it was Christmas morning. Ground beef pasta has since become our go-to dish for cozy dinners, perfect for when you want to gather around the table without fuss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ground beef pasta recipe simplifies dinner preparation and bursts with flavor in every bite
- It’s visually appealing with vibrant colors from fresh ingredients
- Plus, it adapts easily to whatever ingredients you have on hand
- Ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family!
Every time I serve this dish, my family’s faces light up like they’ve just seen their favorite superhero.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option while still ensuring maximum flavor.
Pasta: Any pasta shape works well; I love using penne because it holds sauce beautifully.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma; never skimp on this aromatic ingredient!
Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for texture; they add acidity that balances the richness of the meat.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil elevates the flavor profile; adjust to taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan brings a salty finish that complements the dish perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; don’t forget to season as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by preparing your ingredients so everything is within reach. Chop your onion and mince your garlic while your water heats up for boiling the pasta.
Boil Your Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add salt generously before stirring in your chosen pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent, then stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
Add Ground Beef: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef into the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks until browned all over—about 5-7 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in canned tomatoes along with Italian seasoning. Stir well, letting it simmer gently while you finish cooking your pasta.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once pasta is cooked al dente, drain but save some pasta water! Add drained pasta directly into your skillet with the sauce. Mix thoroughly while adding reserved water if needed for consistency.
Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, and give everything one last gentle toss until beautifully combined.
Now you have an amazing plate of ground beef pasta ready to impress everyone at your table! Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
Enjoying this dish is not just about eating; it’s about sharing laughter around the table as stories unfold over each bite of flavorful goodness!
You Must Know
- Ground beef pasta is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with comforting textures
- It’s versatile and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners
- The rich aromas fill your kitchen, making mealtime feel like a special occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then cook the pasta separately while preparing your sauce for best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat for optimal texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use a good quality ground beef; it makes all the difference in flavor
- Don’t forget to season your pasta water—it’s crucial for enhancing taste
- Letting the sauce simmer enhances its depth, so give it time to develop
There was this one time I whipped up ground beef pasta for a last-minute dinner party. Friends raved about it, and now they think I’m some sort of gourmet chef—if only they knew how easy it really is!
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat in ground beef pasta?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as alternatives to ground beef.
What can I serve with ground beef pasta?
Garlic bread and a fresh salad make fantastic side dishes for this meal.
How long does cooked ground beef pasta last in the fridge?
Cooked ground beef pasta can last up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Ground Beef Pasta
Ground beef pasta is a soul-soothing dish that combines tender pasta with a savory ground beef sauce, infused with aromatic garlic and herbs. This quick yet satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it transforms any ordinary evening into a delightful culinary experience. Gather around the table and enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- 1. Boil pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- 2. Sauté aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté chopped onions until translucent; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- 3. Brown beef: Increase heat slightly, add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- 4. Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in canned tomatoes and Italian seasoning; let simmer while finishing the pasta.
- 5. Combine: Add drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, mixing well and adding reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- 6. Finish: Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, mix gently, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 400g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
