This hearty Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a delicious blend of savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Simple yet full of flavor, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal with family and friends.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Pasta:
300g (10 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work well)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt (for pasta water)
For the Beef Sauce:
500g (1 lb) ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup beef or vegetable broth (optional, for extra richness)
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
Drain the pasta, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
If you prefer a saucier texture, stir in the broth at this stage.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the beef and tomato sauce in the skillet.
Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
Step 4: Serve
Divide the beef pasta among plates or bowls.
Garnish with freshly torn basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious beef pasta with tomato sauce!
Tips for Perfect Beef Pasta:
Pasta choice: Use any pasta shape you prefer, but chunky pasta like rigatoni or penne work especially well to hold onto the sauce.
Balance the flavors: If the tomato sauce tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow it out.
Make it ahead: This beef and tomato sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated. It even tastes better the next day as the flavors develop.
Variations:
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegetable boost: Stir in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to add more nutrients.
Cheese upgrade: Swap Parmesan for shredded mozzarella or provolone for a cheesy, gooey finish.
This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfectly cooked pasta, flavorful beef, and a rich tomato sauce come together in this delicious dish!
