The aroma of sizzling ground beef mingling with the comforting scent of pasta is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This recipe for ground beef and pasta offers a delightful combination of savory flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of nostalgia that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes recipe.
Picture this: It’s a chilly evening, you’ve just returned home, and the thought of preparing dinner feels daunting. But fear not! This recipe is here to save the day, promising an amazing flavor experience that warms both heart and belly.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy ground beef and pasta dish takes minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor
- The rich sauce creates a beautiful harmony with the tender pasta
- Perfect for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for guests
- You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit any palate
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; they were raving about it all night long!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Patty Melts recipe.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but don’t skimp on flavor.
Pasta: Choose your favorite type—penne or rotini works wonderfully for holding onto the sauce.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté until translucent for best results.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor; the more, the merrier!
Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for quality canned tomatoes; their sweetness boosts the sauce.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs brings everything together; don’t hold back!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds richness; sprinkle generously before serving.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté ingredients beautifully without sticking.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite; season to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and chop the onion and garlic in advance. Set yourself up for success by measuring out everything before starting.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions and stir until they become fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Ground Beef
Increase heat slightly and add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it browns evenly until no pink remains. The sizzling sound will be music to your ears.
Add Garlic & Seasoning
When the beef is browned, stir in minced garlic along with Italian seasoning. Allow them to mingle for about 1 minute until aromatic; trust me, this step is crucial!
Mix in Tomatoes & Pasta
Pour in crushed tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Let this simmer while you cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Combine & Serve
Once pasta is cooked, drain it and toss it into the skillet with the meat sauce. Stir everything together until well coated. Serve hot with generous sprinkles of Parmesan cheese on top.
This enjoyable recipe creates a warm atmosphere perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s so versatile—feel free to throw in veggies like spinach or bell peppers during cooking!
As you take that first bite of ground beef mixed with perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in rich sauce, you’ll be grateful for those chilly evenings that brought you here. Enjoy every moment!
You Must Know
- Cooking ground beef and pasta together creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures
- This dish is not just hearty; it’s a comfort food that brings everyone to the table
- Enjoy the rich aroma as it fills your kitchen, making dinner feel extra special
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then cook the pasta simultaneously. Combine everything with sauce for a quick, seamless meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum flavor, always season your beef well before cooking
- For added depth, consider a splash of red wine in your sauce
- Lastly, don’t forget to taste as you go; adjusting seasoning is key!
Sometimes, I remember my first attempt at this recipe—my friends were impressed! They devoured every bite, and I felt like a culinary genius that day.
FAQ
Can I use whole grain pasta instead?
Yes, whole grain pasta works perfectly and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
What sauce pairs best with ground beef and pasta?
A classic marinara or creamy Alfredo sauce complements this dish wonderfully.
Can I freeze leftovers of this recipe?
Absolutely! It freezes well; just ensure it’s stored properly in airtight containers.
Ground Beef and Pasta Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of ground beef and pasta, where savory flavors meet creamy textures. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With tender pasta enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, and customizable with your favorite veggies, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you bring this heartwarming dish to life.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep all ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned with no pink remaining.
- Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer while cooking pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain cooked pasta and combine with the meat sauce in the skillet. Toss well to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the mix. Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later use.
