Ground beef pasta is a culinary symphony that hits all the right notes. Picture a steaming bowl of perfectly cooked pasta, swirled with rich ground beef, bright tomatoes, and fragrant herbs that dance together like they’re at a party. It’s comforting, it’s hearty, and it’s the kind of meal that wraps around you like your favorite sweater on a chilly day. If you’re anything like me, you know there’s nothing better than digging into a plate of ground beef pasta after a long day—especially when it comes together in just under 30 minutes!
Now, let’s not forget how this dish brings back memories of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter over heaping plates of pasta. I can still hear my mom calling us to dinner, her voice ringing through the house as the mouthwatering aroma filled every corner. Ground beef pasta is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impromptu get-together with friends. Trust me, this flavor explosion will leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ground beef pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile combines savory meatiness with zesty tomatoes for a delightful experience
- Its visual appeal will have your guests drooling before they take a bite
- Plus, you can easily customize it by adding vegetables or spices based on what you have at home
I once whipped up this dish for an impromptu gathering, and let me tell you—the compliments just kept rolling in! Everyone asked for seconds (and even thirds), and I think my friend almost proposed to me over it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor; aim for 80/20 fat content.
Pasta: Any type works well, but I love using penne or fusilli to hold onto all that delicious sauce.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; dice finely for even cooking and enhanced flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring depth; use at least three cloves for maximum aroma and taste.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes; they form the heart of our sauce.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs adds warmth; feel free to mix in some fresh basil if you have it.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese makes everything better; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Get ready to dive into the cooking process!
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and toss in diced onions. Sauté until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—around 3-4 minutes should do.
Add Ground Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned while breaking it up with a spatula—it should take about 5-7 minutes.
Mix in Garlic & Spices: Toss in minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fragrant—only about 1 minute needed here!
Incorporate Tomatoes & Simmer: Pour in your canned tomatoes along with their juices. Stir well; allow simmering on low heat for about 10 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Toss Pasta & Serve!: Drain your cooked pasta (don’t rinse!) and add it directly into the skillet with sauce. Mix gently until evenly coated then serve hot with grated Parmesan on top!
This ground beef pasta is not just food; it’s an experience—a hug on a plate! So gather your ingredients and let’s make some delicious memories together!
You Must Know
- Ground beef pasta is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
- Not only is it delicious, but it also comes together in under 30 minutes
- The blend of flavors creates a comforting dish that your family will love, making it perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a pan, then add onions and garlic. While they’re sautéing, cook the pasta separately in salted water. Combine everything at the end for maximum flavor and minimal mess.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Experiment with different cheeses on top to find your perfect combo.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover ground beef pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use high-quality ground beef for better flavor; leaner cuts reduce grease but can dry out easily
- Ensure your pasta is al dente before mixing; this prevents mushiness
- Lastly, allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors beautifully
Sometimes I whip up this ground beef pasta when I’m feeling nostalgic about my college days—friends gathered around the table and laughter echoing through our tiny apartment always brings back warm memories.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best with ground beef?
Any pasta shape works well, but penne or rotini holds sauce perfectly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything and store it separately until you’re ready to serve.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just freeze it after cooking; reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Ground Beef Pasta
Ground beef pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that brings together the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef, rich tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. This comforting meal can be on your table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Mix in tomatoes: Pour in canned tomatoes with their juices and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix gently until well-coated. Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
