Oh my goodness, I can’t wait to share this beef pasta in tomato sauce recipe with you! It’s one of those dishes that just wraps you in a cozy blanket of flavors and warmth. I remember the first time I made it—my kitchen was filled with the incredible aroma of sautéing onions and garlic, and as soon as I took that first bite, I knew I had found a winner. It’s so simple yet utterly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting Sunday dinner. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone, from picky eaters to foodies! Trust me, once you whip this up, you’ll have a go-to meal that brings everyone together around the table. Yum!
Ingredients for Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious beef pasta in tomato sauce. Trust me, you won’t need anything fancy!
- 8 ounces of pasta (any shape you love—penne, spaghetti, or fusilli work great!)
- 1 pound ground beef (I like using lean beef for a little less grease, but go with what you prefer!)
- 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or your favorite jarred kind—no judgment here!)
- 1 onion, chopped (this adds such a lovely flavor, so don’t skip it!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better, right?)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or more if you’re an herb lover like me!)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste—adjust based on your preference!)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adds a nice kick!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing those aromatics to perfection!)
That’s it! You’re all set to create a comforting bowl of goodness. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Let’s dive into making this delicious beef pasta! It’s super straightforward, and I promise the end result is worth the tiny bit of effort. Ready? Here we go!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. You want it to be nice and bubbly! Once it’s boiling, add your 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to the package instructions—typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Give it a stir now and then to prevent sticking. When it’s done, drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a splash of that pasta water; it can work wonders for your sauce later!
Sautéing the Aromatics
While the pasta is cooking, grab a skillet and heat up that tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. You’ll want to sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they’re soft and fragrant. The smell alone will have you dreaming of Italian kitchens!
Browning the Beef
Now, it’s time to add in your pound of ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned all over. You’re looking for a nice caramelized color—this is where the flavor magic happens! Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat if needed to keep it lean and clean.
Making the Sauce
Stir in those 2 cups of tomato sauce, along with the oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let it all simmer together for about 15 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld beautifully. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; if it gets too thick, just add a splash of that reserved pasta water!
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Finally, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained pasta to your sauce and mix it all up until every piece of pasta is coated in that rich, savory sauce. Serve it hot, and feel free to sprinkle some cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of savory ground beef, zesty tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something so satisfying about a warm bowl of pasta in rich sauce that feels like a hug on a plate.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite veggies or switch up the pasta shape to keep things exciting!
- Kid-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic family meal!
- Leftover Love: This dish tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner again!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite pro tips to make sure your beef pasta in tomato sauce turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any shape works, longer pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine holds the sauce beautifully. But hey, go with what you love!
- Beef Variations: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken. They work just as well and still pack a punch of flavor!
- Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms while sautéing the aromatics. It adds color, flavor, and nutrition!
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, sprinkle some on top just before serving. It adds a lovely brightness and freshness to the dish!
- Cheesy Goodness: Don’t hold back on the cheese! Grated Parmesan or mozzarella sprinkled on top right before serving takes it to the next level.
- Save Some Pasta Water: Remember that splash of pasta water? It’s liquid gold! Use it to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it gets too thick.
- Let It Rest: If you can, let the dish sit for a few minutes after combining the pasta and sauce. This helps the flavors meld together even better.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a beef pasta that’s not only delicious but also a delightful experience every time you cook it. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Before we dig into this delicious beef pasta in tomato sauce, I just want to remind you that nutritional values can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can share some common data, like this dish typically has around 450 calories per serving, 20 grams of fat, 25 grams of protein, and 45 grams of carbs, it’s best to check your own brands for the most accurate info. It’s all about making this dish fit your personal cooking style and dietary needs! Enjoy your meal without a worry in the world!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful beef pasta in tomato sauce, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more enjoyable! Here are some tasty ideas for sides and garnishes that complement this dish beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment. You can’t go wrong with that buttery, garlicky goodness to soak up every drop of sauce!
- Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until they’re tender and caramelized. They add great flavor and nutrition!
- Parmesan Cheese: Don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of your pasta right before serving. It adds a lovely salty bite and enhances the overall flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can brighten up the dish. Just chop them up and toss them on right before serving for that extra pop of color and flavor!
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, keep some red pepper flakes on the table. A dash on top of your pasta can take it to a whole new level!
These sides and garnishes not only enhance the flavors of your beef pasta in tomato sauce but also make for a delightful dining experience. Enjoy every bite and the great company that comes with it!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! If ground beef isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for ground turkey or chicken. They both work beautifully in this beef pasta in tomato sauce recipe and will provide a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time; turkey and chicken can cook a bit quicker, so make sure to brown them until they’re cooked through!
Can I add vegetables?
Oh, for sure! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the nutrition and flavor of your dish. I love tossing in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms while I sauté the onions and garlic. They not only add color but also enhance the overall taste and texture of the beef pasta. Just remember to chop them small so they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the sauce!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let your beef pasta in tomato sauce cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if it seems dry. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick fix!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make this beef pasta in tomato sauce ahead of time! I recommend cooking the pasta and sauce separately, then combining them right before serving. You can store the sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days, and just reheat it on the stovetop before adding in freshly cooked pasta. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it!
Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe: 5 Flavorful Secrets
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
This beef pasta in tomato sauce recipe is simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Combine pasta with the sauce and mix well.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- You can use any pasta shape you prefer.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- This dish can be topped with cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: beef pasta in tomato sauce recipe
