If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that bursts with rich flavor, this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe is an absolute keeper. It combines tender pasta with a savory tomato sauce that’s infused with perfectly seasoned ground beef, garlic, and Italian herbs, finished off with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and parsley. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but satisfying enough to feel like a special treat. Every bite is a warm hug on a plate, making it one of my favorite dishes to cook and share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step toward creating a truly memorable dish. Each item plays an essential role, from the pasta providing a tender base to the tomato sauce lending a rich, tangy depth, while the beef adds that satisfying meaty punch.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose your favorite pasta shape as it will soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps sauté the aromatics.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides hearty flavor and protein to the dish.
- 1/2 sweet onion, chopped: Brings natural sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent, aromatic warmth that’s key to the sauce’s depth.
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the sauce its classic Italian flair.
- 1 tbsp instant bouillon cube (chicken or beef): Concentrates flavor for a richer sauce without heaviness.
- 1 (15 oz) can marinara tomato sauce: The star of the show, offering bright, tangy tomato flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle spicy kick and complexity.
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts in for a creamy, salty finish that ties everything together.
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley: A fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This step ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture when combined with the lush tomato sauce later on. Once cooked, drain it carefully and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add minced garlic, the instant bouillon, and Italian seasoning; let everything cook for about a minute to release those wonderful aromas that start building the flavor foundation of this dish.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Now it’s time to add the star protein. Crumble the ground beef into the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat so the sauce stays rich but not greasy.
Step 4: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the marinara tomato sauce and stir everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken just right.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Season the sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Then add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing to coat every strand or piece thoroughly. This step ensures each bite is bursting with meaty tomato goodness.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Turn down the heat and stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Allow the cheese to melt into the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture that brings a wonderful harmony of flavors. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few more fresh parsley leaves on top adds a fresh, inviting look and amplifies the flavor with minimal effort. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can also add an exciting twist for the adventurous palate.
Side Dishes
This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. For a true Italian vibe, crusty garlic bread makes perfect sense to scoop up every last bit of delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls garnished with a sprig of parsley and Parmesan curls. You could also plate it family-style in a large serving dish, inviting everyone to help themselves and creating a warm, sharing atmosphere at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making for delicious next-day meals or easy lunch options.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, freeze the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to keep the pasta from drying out and ensure it heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe is flexible with pasta choices. Whether you prefer penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti, each will hold the sauce nicely and make a delicious meal.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils to maintain texture and richness while keeping the dish meat-free.
What can I substitute for the instant bouillon cube?
If you don’t have instant bouillon on hand, a good quality beef or vegetable broth concentrate or a dash of soy sauce can add a similar depth of flavor to your tomato sauce.
How spicy is the Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe?
This recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a kick if you enjoy a little heat in your meals.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a gathering?
Definitely! You can make the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it, then cook the pasta fresh just before serving. This keeps everything tasting vibrant and fresh while saving you time on the day of your event.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a simple, well-made Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this dish delivers hearty flavors and happy memories with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
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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 Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A classic and hearty Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce recipe featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce with ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a cheesy finish. Ready in 30 minutes, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta
Sauce and Beef
- 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
Garnish
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, instant bouillon, and Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook while crumbling the meat until browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the marinara tomato sauce, bring to a simmer, and let cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop flavors.
- Combine: Adjust seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce and beef mixture until well combined.
- Finish: Stir in fresh chopped parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese until the cheese has melted and everything is well incorporated, about 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute lean ground turkey for beef for a lighter alternative.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer before adding pasta.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free if needed.
- Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor over pre-grated cheese.
