Ground beef pasta is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite infused with savory ground beef and rich, aromatic sauce. The scents of garlic and herbs waft through the kitchen, making your mouth water and your stomach rumble louder than a marching band. As you sink into this delicious dish, you can’t help but smile at the memories it brings—family dinners, laughter echoing off the walls, and that one time you almost burned the sauce but saved it just in time for dinner.
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about those moments when everyone gathers around the table, sharing stories and enjoying good company. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, ground beef pasta fits the bill perfectly. It promises to deliver an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds). So grab your apron, because we’re about to dive into this delightful culinary adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ground beef pasta is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its rich flavors will satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table
- The vibrant colors and textures provide visual appeal that makes every plate look gourmet
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adjust based on what ingredients you have on hand
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, leaving me feeling like a five-star chef.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor during cooking.
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Pasta: Any pasta shape works here; I love using penne for its perfect sauce-hugging abilities.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they add a punch of flavor that jarred options just can’t match.
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Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a rich base; they bring depth and sweetness to the sauce.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until it’s translucent for maximum flavor.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the dish; feel free to use fresh herbs if available.
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Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté the vegetables while adding healthy fats.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in your dish.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese sprinkled on top adds richness and that final touch of luxury.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sauté the Vegetables: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; cook until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the Beef: Increase heat slightly before adding ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned and crumbly—about 5-7 minutes—draining excess fat if necessary.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in canned tomatoes alongside Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: While sauce simmers, boil salted water in another pot. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes.
Toss Everything Together: Drain pasta once cooked; add it directly into the skillet with your sauce mixture. Toss everything together until well combined; let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Serve with Parmesan Cheese: Transfer your ground beef pasta onto plates or bowls. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top; watch as it melts into creamy goodness!
Now you have an amazing bowl of comfort waiting for you! This dish not only fills bellies but also warms hearts—a true winner in any home!
You Must Know
- Ground beef pasta is not just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl
- The rich flavors mingle beautifully, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen
- Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef until it’s nice and crispy, then cook your pasta in the same pot to save time and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey or veggie options, and toss in your favorite vegetables for extra crunch and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For delicious ground beef pasta, always use fresh herbs; they enhance flavor dramatically
- Don’t forget to taste as you go; adjusting seasoning makes all the difference
- Finally, letting it rest before serving allows flavors to develop beautifully
Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where laughter echoed over bowls of steaming pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and second helpings.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a healthier twist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance; the flavors deepen and improve overnight.
How do I get my pasta perfectly cooked?
Cook pasta until al dente as it continues cooking slightly when mixed with sauce later on.
Ground Beef Pasta
Ground beef pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta with savory ground beef and a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and Italian herbs. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, delivering mouthwatering flavors that will leave everyone asking for more. With its vibrant colors and delightful aroma, this meal not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 28 oz crushed canned tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant (3-4 minutes).
- Increase heat slightly and add ground beef; cook until browned and crumbly (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes).
- Drain pasta and mix it with the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
