Savory Ground Beef and Tomato Pasta
Looking for a quick and satisfying meal? This savory ground beef and tomato pasta is the perfect solution. It’s packed with flavor and can be on your table in less than 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
This dish is all about the balance of savory ground beef and the rich, tangy tomato sauce, creating a harmony of tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various ingredients you might have on hand, making it a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire.
A Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish
This dish delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors, centered around tender pasta and well-seasoned ground beef. The rich tomato sauce brings everything together, making each bite enjoyable.
When preparing this meal, you’re not just cooking; you’re crafting a comforting experience ideal for various occasions—whether it’s a weeknight dinner with family or a solo treat after a long day.
The Heart of the Meal: Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce
Ground beef serves as a hearty foundation, offering a robust flavor that pairs seamlessly with the tangy tomato sauce.
The sauce, enriched with crushed tomatoes and aromatic herbs like oregano and basil, elevates the dish. Together, they create a balance that is both savory and satisfying, perfect for those who appreciate classic Italian cuisine.
Cooking Techniques for Perfection
To get the most out of this recipe, mastering a few key cooking techniques is essential. Start by cooking the pasta until it’s al dente; this ensures it retains a delightful bite when combined with the sauce.
Next, browning the ground beef properly is crucial. This step not only adds flavor but also enhances the overall texture. Don’t rush the sautéing of the onions and garlic either, as they contribute significantly to the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for an Inviting Presentation
Presentation can elevate the entire dining experience. Serve the pasta on a rustic plate, allowing the vibrant colors of the sauce and garnishes to shine.
Sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a touch of elegance, while fresh basil leaves provide a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Pair your meal with a glass of red wine to enhance the flavors even further.
Nutrition and Serving Information
This dish is not only delightful to eat but also provides a balanced meal option. With each serving, you get a good amount of protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from the pasta, and essential vitamins from the tomato sauce.
With four servings available, this recipe is perfect for sharing or enjoying leftovers the next day. It’s a wholesome choice that fulfills dietary needs without compromising on taste.
Versatility and Customization
One of the appealing aspects of this pasta dish is its adaptability. You can easily modify the ingredients based on what you have at home.
Feel free to add different vegetables, swap out the ground beef for another protein, or tweak the herbs to suit your preferences. This flexibility makes it a reliable go-to recipe in any kitchen.
A Quick and Flavorful Pasta Dish
This ground beef pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines cooked pasta with seasoned ground beef and a mouthwatering tomato sauce. It’s filling, satisfying, and perfect for a family dinner or a comforting solo meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Tomato Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Heat through for a couple of minutes.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
