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
Scale
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.
