Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This pasta dish comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The combination of ground beef and tomatoes creates a hearty and satisfying sauce that’s packed with flavor.
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to different dietary needs and taste preferences, making it a family favorite.
- One-Pan Convenience: Most of the cooking is done in one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables in one delicious meal.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Ground Beef: Choose an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 works well too.
- Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the base of the sauce. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic for even cooking.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for a good quality canned product for a rich, robust sauce.
- Dried Herbs: Oregano and basil add depth and an Italian flair. Fresh herbs can be used if available.
- Pasta: Spaghetti or penne work well, but feel free to use your favorite shape. Cook to al dente for the best texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh for the best flavor, or use a high-quality pre-grated option.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- Browning the Beef: Cook the ground beef over medium heat to ensure it browns evenly without burning. Breaking it apart with a wooden spoon helps achieve a consistent texture.
- Sauce Simmering: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. This step is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor.
- Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water before draining. It contains starch that can help thicken and emulsify the sauce, creating a smoother consistency.
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook pasta to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Visual Cues: Look for a glossy, well-integrated sauce as a sign that the dish is ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Ground Beef Pasta: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a meatless version.
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Cheesy Baked Pasta: Mix the cooked pasta and sauce with mozzarella and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Pasta with Ground Turkey: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option with a milder flavor.
- Herb-Infused Sauce: Use fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano for a more vibrant sauce.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Seasonal Twist: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Family Dinner: Serve this pasta dish as a hearty main course for family dinners, paired with a simple green salad and garlic bread.
- Casual Gatherings: Perfect for casual gatherings, it can be served buffet-style with various toppings like extra cheese, fresh herbs, and chili flakes.
- Weeknight Meals: Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a quick sauté of greens for a complete weeknight meal.
- Presentation Tips: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.
- Wine Pairing: A light red wine like Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs well with this dish.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need about 2 lbs of ripe tomatoes, peeled and crushed. The flavor might be slightly different, but it’s a great option when in season.
Q: What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
Any pasta shape works well, but spaghetti, penne, and rigatoni are popular choices. Choose based on your preference for texture and sauce retention.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with lentils, a plant-based meat alternative, or extra vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant for a hearty vegetarian version.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Ensure you use a large pot with plenty of boiling, salted water. Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking, and don’t overcook it.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.
Q: What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
Add some of the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce to your desired consistency.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, the sauce freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Pasta dishes with ground beef are a versatile and satisfying option for any meal. This classic recipe is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
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Classic Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.