Ground beef pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with the comforting texture of pasta, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. This recipe is particularly appealing because it is quick to prepare, requiring only about 30 minutes from start to finish. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand, whether that’s adding vegetables or adjusting the spices. hearty beef ramen recipe Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this ground beef pasta delivers a satisfying and hearty meal that everyone will love. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe not only easy to follow but also a great way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a plateful of pure comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Pasta

For more inspiration, check out this Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls recipe.

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Ground Beef Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while still enjoying rich flavor; about one pound will suffice for serving four people
• Pasta of Your Choice: Spaghetti or penne work well; cook according to package instructions for al dente texture
• Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons will help sauté the beef and enhance the flavor
• Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish’s aroma; about three cloves should be perfect

For the Sauce:

• Canned Tomatoes: Use diced or crushed tomatoes as a base for the sauce, providing acidity and richness
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano enhances flavor; use about one teaspoon

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

this recipe

How to Make Ground Beef Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic so they are ready to go when you start cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add your pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around eight to ten minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about five minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, roughly one minute more.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Break it apart with a spatula as it browns, cooking until no longer pink, which takes about six to eight minutes.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Stir in canned tomatoes along with Italian seasoning into the skillet with beef. Let it simmer for approximately ten minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Toss in cooked pasta into the skillet with sauce mixture. Stir well until pasta is thoroughly coated in sauce; cook together for another two minutes.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ground beef in spices before cooking

How to Serve Ground Beef Pasta

This Ground Beef Pasta is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the ground beef sauce a day in advance. Cook it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This enhances the flavors while saving time on busy days.
• Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

Suggestions for Ground Beef Pasta :

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta

Overcooking pasta is a common mistake that can ruin your dish. For ground beef pasta, it is crucial to cook the pasta al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and absorbs too much sauce, making your dish less enjoyable. To avoid this, follow the package instructions for cooking time but taste the pasta a minute or two before it’s done. This practice ensures it has that perfect texture when combined with your savory ground beef sauce.

Don’t Skimp on Seasoning

Seasoning is vital for enhancing the flavors in your ground beef pasta. Many cooks forget to add enough salt and spices while cooking, resulting in bland meals. Always season your meat and sauce as you go along. A pinch of salt enhances the natural flavors of ground beef, while herbs like oregano and basil can add depth. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, but it’s hard to fix a dish that started bland.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients can significantly elevate your ground beef pasta recipe. Fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to their dried counterparts or canned alternatives. When possible, opt for fresh produce from local markets. Not only do they enhance taste, but they also contribute nutritional value to your meal. Investing in fresh ingredients pays off in both flavor and health benefits. For more inspiration, check out this Teriyaki Meatballs recipe recipe.

Don’t Forget to Drain Excess Fat

Ground beef can release a lot of fat during cooking, which may make your dish greasy if not handled properly. After browning the meat, it is essential to drain any excess fat before adding other ingredients like sauce or vegetables. This step helps maintain a balanced flavor profile and keeps the dish from becoming overly rich. If you prefer a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef.

FAQs :

What is the best type of pasta for ground beef pasta?

When it comes to choosing the right type of pasta for ground beef pasta dishes, options like penne or rotini work exceptionally well. These shapes hold onto sauces better than others, allowing each bite to burst with flavor. The ridges and curves in these pastas trap pieces of meat and sauce effectively, enhancing every mouthful. While spaghetti is popular too, its slippery texture may not pair as well with thicker sauces made from ground beef.

How can I make my ground beef pasta healthier?

To create a healthier version of ground beef pasta, consider using leaner cuts of meat such as 90% lean ground beef or even substituting with turkey or chicken. Incorporating more vegetables into your sauce adds fiber and nutrients; think bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini mixed into your base sauce. quick chicken poke bowl Additionally, using whole grain or chickpea pasta increases dietary fiber and protein content without sacrificing taste.

Can I prepare ground beef pasta ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing ground beef pasta ahead of time is convenient for busy schedules. Cook your meat sauce and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce while cooking fresh pasta separately to maintain optimal texture and flavor. This method allows you to enjoy homemade meals without spending too much time cooking on busy nights.

What should I serve with my ground beef pasta?

Ground beef pasta pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette adds freshness to balance out the hearty meal. Garlic bread also makes an excellent choice; its buttery crunch enhances the dining experience without overwhelming flavors. Mediterranean white bean soup For something lighter yet satisfying, consider steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans seasoned with olive oil and garlic.

Conclusion for Ground Beef Pasta :

In summary, crafting delightful ground beef pasta involves paying attention to key details like cooking time, seasoning, ingredient quality, fat management, and serving suggestions. By avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking pasta and skimping on seasoning while embracing fresh ingredients and proper preparation techniques can elevate this classic dish remarkably. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or shared at gatherings with friends, mastering these tips ensures that every plate of ground beef pasta delivers satisfaction and flavor that everyone will love!

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Ground Beef Pasta

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Ground Beef Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly combines lean ground beef with al dente pasta in a rich tomato sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe can be customized with your favorite veggies and spices, making it a versatile choice for any meal. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a comforting plate of deliciousness that your family and friends will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 oz spaghetti or penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare ingredients: chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (6–8 minutes).
5. Stir in canned tomatoes and Italian seasoning; let simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet, stirring well to coat. Cook together for another 2 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: - For added nutrition, incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. - Substitute lean turkey or chicken for a lighter option.