When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with ground beef pasta. It’s a heavenly combination of rich flavors, hearty textures, and that unmistakable aroma wafting through the kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table. Picture this: a steaming bowl of pasta enveloped in a savory sauce, with tender ground beef mingling delightfully among garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. Each forkful is a warm hug that wraps around your taste buds!
Every time I make this dish, I can’t help but be transported back to my childhood kitchen, where my mom would whip it up on busy weeknights. It was the kind of meal that made even the most hectic days feel special. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this ground beef pasta always steals the show. So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ground beef pasta recipe offers incredible flavor without breaking a sweat in the kitchen
- It’s customizable based on your pantry staples, making it perfect for any night
- The vibrant colors and inviting aromas create an irresistible visual feast
- Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!
Sharing this dish with friends always gets rave reviews; they never leave without asking for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease and more flavor; I prefer 80/20 for optimal juiciness.
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Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti works best here; feel free to swap for your favorite pasta shape.
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Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for quicker cooking.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic packs a punch; using at least four cloves elevates the flavor.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for crushed tomatoes; they provide a luscious base for the sauce.
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Italian Herbs: A mix of dried oregano and basil enhances authenticity; fresh herbs can be used if you have them.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness when sprinkled atop; don’t skip this!
For the Sauce:
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds depth and richness to your dish.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; taste and adjust as needed.
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Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Add these if you like a little heat—just a pinch goes a long way!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma.
Add Garlic & Ground Beef: Toss in minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula until browned evenly—this should take about five minutes.
Create the Sauce Base: Once the beef is cooked through, drain excess fat if needed. Stir in crushed tomatoes along with dried herbs like oregano and basil. Let this simmer gently for about ten minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Cook the Pasta Perfectly: While your sauce simmers away happily, boil salted water in another pot. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around eight to ten minutes.
Toss Everything Together!: Drain your pasta once it’s ready and add it directly into the skillet with your meat sauce. Toss everything together so every strand is coated in that delicious sauce—about two minutes will do!
Serve & Enjoy!: Plate your ground beef pasta generously and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add fresh basil leaves on top for an aromatic finish before diving in!
This delightful dish captures hearts (and stomachs) while being easy enough to whip up on any weeknight. Enjoy sharing it with loved ones while creating memories around the table!
You Must Know
- Ground beef pasta is a quick weeknight dinner that pleases everyone
- The balance of flavors makes it comforting, while the aromas fill your kitchen with deliciousness
- You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you crave something special
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef first, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce for a seamless meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce grease; this keeps the dish light and flavorful
- Cook pasta in salted water for better taste; it makes a world of difference
- Always simmer your sauce to deepen flavor; patience pays off in deliciousness!
I once served this dish at a family gathering, and my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Now, that’s a compliment worth savoring!
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat in this ground beef pasta recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as substitutes for ground beef.
How can I make ground beef pasta healthier?
Adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach can enhance nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy pasta?
Cook pasta al dente and toss it with olive oil before adding to the sauce; this helps maintain texture.
Ground Beef Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground beef pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and hearty textures into a delicious meal that everyone loves. Picture a steaming bowl of spaghetti tossed with savory ground beef, fragrant garlic, and juicy tomatoes. This dish not only warms the soul but also evokes nostalgic memories of family dinners. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about five minutes.
- Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in crushed tomatoes and herbs; simmer for ten minutes.
- Boil salted water in another pot and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente (8–10 minutes).
- Drain pasta, add to the skillet with sauce, and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
