If you ever need the perfect dinner that pairs comfort with bold, classic flavors, look no further than Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce. Each forkful brings together hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, garlicky tomato sauce—topped with fresh herbs and Parmesan for an irresistible finish. This dish is loved for its rustic simplicity and soul-warming character, making it a staple you’ll want to come back to again and again. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this one-pan wonder is ready to win hearts and taste buds alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the core components for this recipe is refreshingly uncomplicated! Every element is carefully chosen to bring out deep, rounded flavors and to create that classic Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce taste you’ll crave. Here’s what you need and why each is special:
- Pasta: Penne or rigatoni capture the sauce beautifully, but use your favorite shape for texture that suits you best.
- Olive oil: This brings a subtle fruitiness and helps create that savory base when sautéing the aromatics.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds essential sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses every bite with aromatic punch that’s hard to resist.
- Ground beef: The star protein for hearty, savory richness throughout the dish.
- Crushed tomatoes: A can of crushed tomatoes supplies the backbone of the tomato sauce—creamy and robust.
- Tomato paste: Adds intense tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce to perfection.
- Dried oregano: Classic Italian flavor that gives the sauce its signature herby undertone.
- Dried basil: Brings delicate sweetness and breathes freshness into the red sauce.
- Salt: Boosts and balances all the flavors seamlessly.
- Black pepper: Gives mild heat and earthy undertones.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a touch of fiery spice!
- Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that melds the elements together delightfully.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A bright, herbal garnish for that pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente, following the package directions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later. This prevents the noodles from overcooking and ensures the perfect bite when tossed with the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s softened and fragrant—about 4 to 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds. This short sauté brings out the best of both without letting them burn.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef straight into the skillet with your onion and garlic. Use your spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, continuing until it’s no longer pink and nicely browned. If you notice excess fat, go ahead and drain it off—this keeps your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce rich but never greasy.
Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce
Time to layer on the flavor! Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and, if you like things spicy, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Mix everything together, then turn the heat down and let the sauce gently simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring now and then. This lets everything meld, giving you a robust, deeply flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Finish
Add your cooked pasta right into the skillet with the sauce, tossing well to coat every piece evenly. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until everything is creamy and combined. Let it cook for another couple of minutes—just enough to let the flavors come together. A shower of fresh parsley makes a lovely finish if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce
Garnishes
Top your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a bit of chopped fresh parsley for restaurant-worthy color and lift. Freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes is also a lovely touch for added zing.
Side Dishes
This dish is plenty satisfying on its own, but for a classic Italian-American spread, serve with a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every bit of the savory sauce. Roasted vegetables or sautéed greens like spinach add freshness and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce to really shine, try serving it in individual bowls with a little extra Parmesan and parsley on the side. For family-style dining, pile it high on a platter and let everyone dig in! Want to get festive? Serve it in baked pasta shells as a fun, shareable alternative.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight, meaning your next-day serving will be every bit as satisfying—if not more!
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! Cool the pasta completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. For best results, freeze portions without the fresh parsley garnish and enjoy within 2 to 3 months for peak flavor.
Reheating
To bring Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much, just splash in a bit of water or broth and stir until creamy and luscious again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne and rigatoni are favorites for holding onto the flavorful sauce, you can easily swap in spaghetti, fusilli, or whatever pasta you love most. Cook just to al dente for the best texture.
What can I add to boost the veggies?
Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even baby spinach for extra nutrition and texture. Sauté these along with the onion for best results—they’ll blend beautifully into the savory tomato sauce.
Can I make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Prepare the dish a day in advance, then reheat gently when ready to serve. The flavors actually intensify as it sits, making this a brilliant make-ahead option for gatherings or meal prep.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The sauce is still wonderfully rich and delicious without the dairy.
What kind of ground beef is best?
Opt for 85-90 percent lean ground beef for the ideal balance of flavor and moisture. If you choose meat with higher fat, just be sure to drain off the excess grease before building your sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about serving up a bowl of Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce—the kind of meal that just feels like home. Give this recipe a whirl and let it fill your kitchen with warmth and classic Italian-American aromas. It’s a surefire hit for anyone craving a hearty, beautiful pasta dinner!
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Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful beef pasta dish in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a satisfying dinner. This recipe is easy to make and combines the savory flavors of ground beef with aromatic herbs and cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Pasta:
Tomato Sauce:
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic. Brown ground beef, drain excess fat. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, salt, and peppers. Simmer.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, stir in Parmesan. Cook briefly until heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- You can add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
