Hearty Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce – Easy & Flavorful Recipe
Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
As a chef, I’m always looking for recipes that balance rich flavors with easy preparation, and this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is one of my favorites. This dish combines tender beef, a vibrant tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Hearty: The combination of ground beef and tomato sauce creates a bold, satisfying flavor.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is loved by kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste—add some veggies, or spice it up with chili flakes!
Ingredients
- 300g (10 oz) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 400g (14 oz) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. - Prepare the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Combine Beef and Sauce:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and mix well with the tomato sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. - Toss with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Time
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta fresh before serving.
3. What can I add to this recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Can I make it spicier?
Of course! Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for some heat.
5. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.
6. What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal. Enjoy cooking, and buon appetito!
Let me know if you need additional adjustments or want more recipes!
