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If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in just about 30 minutes, this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining tender pasta with a rich, savory tomato sauce loaded with flavorful ground beef, it offers both simplicity and depth of flavor in every bite. This dish boasts a perfect balance of juicy meat, aromatic herbs, and that irresistible cheesy finish, making it one of those go-to recipes you’ll return to again and again when you want a satisfying dinner with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe has an important role to play, contributing to an ideal harmony of taste, tenderness, and vibrant color. Using straightforward, essential components keeps this dish approachable but never dull.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose your favorite shape; it’s the foundation that carries the delicious sauce.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle fruity richness to the sauce base.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: The main protein that brings hearty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1/2 sweet onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and classic Italian flair.
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to brighten and enhance the tomato sauce.
- 1 tbsp instant bouillon cube (chicken or beef): Boosts umami and richness, making the sauce deeply savory.
- 1 (15 oz) can marinara tomato sauce: The vibrant, tangy heart of the dish, packed with robust tomato flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt: Essential for bringing all flavors together just right.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a hint of heat and complexity.
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: To melt into the pasta for that luscious, cheesy finish.
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley: A fresh, green pop of color and herbaceous brightness to top it off.
How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt isn’t just for seasoning; it helps the pasta cook to perfection with great flavor. Drop in your pasta and cook it just until al dente according to the package instructions. Once done, drain thoroughly and set aside—no one wants soggy pasta soaking in water!
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes; this gentle cooking releases their natural sweetness and softens their texture. Next, stir in the minced garlic, instant bouillon cube, and Italian seasoning, letting them cook just until fragrant—usually about a minute—to create a complex aromatic foundation.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Now it’s time to add the star protein—ground beef. Spread it evenly in the skillet and let it brown without moving it too much at first, which helps build extra flavor from caramelization. As it cooks, crumble the meat with a spatula to ensure even cooking and texture. Once the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, drain off any excess fat to keep the sauce from turning greasy.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the marinara tomato sauce and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all those robust flavors to marry while thickening the sauce slightly. This simmering for about 8 minutes really helps deepen the taste and improve the sauce’s texture, making every spoonful into something special.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Give the sauce a final season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Then fold the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, stirring gently so every piece is lovingly coated with the rich tomato and beef sauce—this is when the dish truly comes alive.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Parsley
Turn the heat to low and sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese alongside fresh chopped parsley. Stir until the cheese melts into a silky, luscious coating that clings to every strand of pasta, while the parsley breathes a fresh, lively note into the dish. Serve immediately to enjoy it at its very best.
How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To kick things up a notch, sprinkle extra Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes for a little fire. A handful of fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a finishing touch that transforms this simple comfort dish into something elegant and inviting.
Side Dishes
This meal pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce, or even roasted vegetables to introduce some earthy crunch and color to the plate. These sides keep the meal balanced and add lively contrasts of texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef pasta in tomato sauce inside hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for a colorful, Instagram-worthy presentation. Alternatively, layering it in a baking dish topped with extra cheese and baking until bubbly makes for a comforting casserole perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The pasta and sauce will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining their flavors if properly chilled.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready to thaw on busy days.
Reheating
When ready to eat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge or simply reheat refrigerated leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until warmed through to preserve the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While any pasta you have on hand will work, shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are especially good for catching the tomato sauce and beef chunks, making every bite flavorful.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms to keep the hearty texture while making it vegetarian. Just be sure to use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken or beef for the best flavor.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. The sauce tastes even better when allowed to sit for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it gently before adding the freshly cooked pasta.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing step or stir in a few dashes of hot sauce when simmering the sauce to get a pleasant kick without overpowering the rich tomato and beef flavors.
What is the best cheese to use besides Parmesan?
As a substitute or addition to Parmesan, you can try Pecorino Romano for a sharper tang or a mild mozzarella for extra creaminess. Mixing cheeses can also create great layers of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe hits all the right notes when you’re craving something comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. With classic ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you want a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. I truly hope you give it a try and make it part of your regular recipe rotation—it’s one of those meals that never fails to satisfy and brings smiles all around the table.
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Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This hearty Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce recipe combines al dente pasta with a rich and savory tomato-based beef sauce, enhanced with Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta
Sauce and Meat
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp instant bouillon cube (chicken or beef)
- 1 (15 oz) can marinara tomato sauce
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, instant bouillon cube, and Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the marinara tomato sauce and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for about 8 minutes to develop flavor.
- Combine: Season the sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir the cooked pasta into the sauce until well coated.
- Finish: Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when cooking the onion and garlic.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor; pre-shredded works in a pinch.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
