Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce combines savory ground beef with a rich, tangy tomato sauce and tender pasta, creating a comforting and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. The balance of flavors—from the umami of the beef to the acidity of the tomatoes and the seasoning that ties everything together—makes this dish a favorite among families, busy weeknights, and casual dinner gatherings.

Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner for the whole family or a quick yet delicious meal to satisfy your cravings, Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce delivers on both taste and ease. This guide walks you through each step of the process, offers tips for success, and explores a few variations to make the dish your own.

Why You’ll Love Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

• Rich and Hearty Flavor: The combination of savory ground beef and tangy tomato sauce creates a deep, well-rounded flavor that satisfies with every bite.
• Comforting and Filling: This dish is perfect for those moments when you crave something hearty. The beef and pasta together make for a filling and satisfying meal.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe can be whipped up quickly, making it ideal for busy nights or when you just want to enjoy a homemade meal without too much fuss.
• Customizable: Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is versatile—add your favorite vegetables, change up the seasonings, or even swap in a different type of pasta to make it uniquely yours.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is great for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends, everyone will love this classic pasta dish.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean)
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your preferred shape)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is browned, remove any excess fat if necessary.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

To the same pan with the cooked beef, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant. The garlic will release a wonderful aroma that enhances the flavor of the sauce.

4. Add the Tomato Sauce Ingredients

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and sugar (if using). The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, but it is optional. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your sauce.

5. Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth or water to help loosen the sauce. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit more broth or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce to coat it evenly. If the sauce is too thick to coat the pasta, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the pasta is fully coated in the sauce, remove the skillet from heat. Divide the pasta between serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

• Choose the Right Beef: While lean ground beef is recommended, you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer more flavor, you can use ground pork or a mix of beef and pork.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a more vibrant, aromatic flavor. Fresh basil can be torn and added to the sauce just before serving.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, so it holds its texture and doesn’t become mushy once mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. If you prefer a saucier dish, add more beef broth or pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
• Make it Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also stir in a handful of grated cheese into the sauce for a creamier texture.

Variations of Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

• Vegetable Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for a more colorful and nutritious dish. You can also stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking for added greens.
• Spicy Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced fresh chili peppers to the sauce. You could also stir in a spoonful of hot sauce or chili paste.
• Beef and Sausage Pasta: Add Italian sausage to the beef for a more robust, flavorful sauce. Brown the sausage along with the beef, and then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
• Cheesy Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce: Top the cooked pasta with shredded mozzarella cheese before serving, or stir in a few handfuls of shredded cheese directly into the sauce. You can also layer the pasta with cheese and bake it for a baked pasta dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a great make-ahead dish. Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, you can freeze the beef pasta in tomato sauce. To do this, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if the sauce thickened too much during freezing.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Pair your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce with complementary dishes to round out the meal:

• Garlic Bread: A classic side to serve with pasta, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad balances the heaviness of the pasta and adds freshness to the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the pasta with roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for added texture and nutrition.
• Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the richness of the beef and tomato sauce.

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Conclusion

Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a timeless comfort food that delivers rich flavors, a hearty texture, and satisfying warmth with every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients, easy instructions, and plenty of room for customization, you’ll be able to create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Enjoy this savory pasta dish—it’s the ultimate in comforting, flavorful home cooking!