If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender pasta with a rich, flavorful tomato sauce loaded with savory ground beef, fragrant herbs, and a touch of spice, this dish is both simple to prepare and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends, it’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together around the table with a classic taste that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each component plays an important role, bringing balance to the flavors, texture, and color of your dish. From the savory ground beef to the vibrant crushed tomatoes and aromatic herbs, these familiar pantry staples come together to make a pasta sauce that’s simply outstanding.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides rich, meaty flavor and protein that makes this dish hearty and filling.
- Pasta (12 ounces): Choose penne, rotini, or your favorite shape to hold onto the tomato sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a fruity, smooth base to sauté the aromatics and brown the beef.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Delivers sweetness and depth when softened in the pan.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory profile with its pungent and warm aroma.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces): The star of the sauce, offering a rich, tangy foundation.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor for extra intensity.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings an earthy, herbal note perfectly suited for Italian-inspired dishes.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a sweet, peppery fragrance that livens up the sauce.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the flavors and enhances natural sweetness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a subtle heat and complexity.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick of spice, tune it to your liking.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): A nutty and salty topper that melts beautifully over the served pasta.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds fresh color and a bright herbal finish.
How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is your pasta’s spa time. Cook your chosen pasta until it’s perfectly al dente, meaning it should still have a tiny bit of bite when you taste it. Once done, drain it well and set it aside. This step ensures your pasta is ready to soak up the beautiful tomato sauce without turning mushy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, warm up the olive oil in a spacious skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just thirty seconds to release its enticing aroma without burning. This gentle sauté forms the flavor foundation for your sauce.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to your skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Allow the meat to brown fully, which takes around 6 to 8 minutes. This browning step is crucial because it develops deep, meaty flavors that elevate the dish. Once browned, drain any excess fat for a leaner sauce.
Step 4: Create the Tomato Sauce
Stir the tomato paste into the beef mixture; this thickens the sauce and deepens the tomato flavor. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting the sauce cook and meld for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the flavors harmonized and the sauce silky smooth.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now comes the best part—mix your cooked pasta directly into the rich tomato sauce. Toss everything together so each piece of pasta is beautifully coated in that luscious sauce. Let them cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, giving the pasta time to soak up all those vibrant flavors and create a cohesive, delicious dish.
Step 6: Final Touches
Serve your beef pasta hot, generously sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese. If you love a fresh burst of color and aroma, add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley right on top. This little garnish instantly lifts the presentation and flavor profile, making every bite that much more enjoyable.
How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe even more inviting, I recommend finishing it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan. It melts delicately and adds a salty, nutty richness that complements the tomato sauce perfectly. A few sprigs of chopped fresh parsley not only brighten the plate visually but add a subtle herbal freshness that balances the meatiness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or classic garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers add complementary sweetness and texture, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled briefly to form a golden crust. Alternatively, plate it family-style in a wide serving dish and garnish with vibrant herbs and a drizzle of quality olive oil to make a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftover Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it chilled promptly to maintain freshness and flavor. It’s a fantastic choice for easy next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish to enjoy later by portioning it into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top as the sauce may expand slightly. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat in this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be excellent substitutes based on your preference. Just remember these meats may bring their own flavors and fat content, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils to create a delicious vegetarian version that still feels satisfying and robust.
What pasta shapes work best in this recipe?
Penne, rotini, rigatoni, or any pasta with ridges or tubes is perfect because they hold the tomato sauce well, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The tomato sauce can be made a day in advance. This actually helps deepen the flavor as the herbs and spices meld overnight. Just reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the amount or omit it completely if you prefer a milder taste.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe is a true keeper that delivers both comfort and flavor without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. Its inviting aromas and satisfying blend of textures make it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta dish that everyone will ask you to make again and again.
Print
Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce recipe combines tender ground beef with a rich, flavorful tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Infused with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs, this comforting dish is easy to prepare on the stovetop and makes a satisfying main course for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, for about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the sauce from being greasy.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to combine. Allow the pasta to cook in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes so it can absorb the rich tomato flavors.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh and colorful touch.
Notes
- Ground turkey or sausage can be used as alternatives to ground beef for a different flavor profile.
- Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms provides extra veggies and enhances the dish’s nutrition and texture.
