The aroma of pasta recipes with ground beef wafting through my kitchen always brings me back to evenings spent with Mama Lou, my grandmother. Her kitchen was the heart of our home, a place where stories and meals were shared with equal enthusiasm. I remember the way she would gently fold the ground beef into the sauce, her hands moving with the grace of someone who knew the rhythm of cooking by heart. Mama Lou’s recipes were simple yet filled with love, and today, I find myself recreating those moments with my own twist, hoping to pass down the warmth and comfort of our family meals to you.
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Why You’ll Love This Pasta Recipes with Ground Beef
This pasta recipe with ground beef is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures that promises to transport you back to those cherished family dinners. Whether you’re cooking for a bustling family gathering or a quiet night in, this dish is the perfect choice. What makes this recipe truly special is the nostalgia it carries with each bite. The ground beef, simmered to perfection, melds beautifully with the pasta, creating a symphony of flavors that is both hearty and comforting. As you savor this dish, you’ll find yourself wrapped in a warm embrace of tradition and love, much like the ones I experienced with Mama Lou.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Pasta Recipes with Ground Beef
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces pasta of your choice (penne or spaghetti work wonderfully)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
If you’re out of oregano, feel free to substitute with Italian seasoning or a pinch of thyme for a different nuance. The choice of pasta is also flexible, as Mama Lou would often say, “Use what you have, and it will always taste good.”
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
Savory Pasta Creations: Ground Beef Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipes with ground beef. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces pasta of your choice (penne or spaghetti work wonderfully)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
If you’re out of oregano, feel free to substitute with Italian seasoning or a pinch of thyme for a different nuance. The choice of pasta is also flexible, as Mama Lou would often say, “Use what you have, and it will always taste good.”
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. As Mama Lou always insisted, “Don’t be shy with the Parmesan; it’s the crown of the dish!”
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Pasta Recipes with Ground Beef
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. As Mama Lou always insisted, “Don’t be shy with the Parmesan; it’s the crown of the dish!”
Tips for Making the Best Pasta Recipes with Ground Beef
For the best results, choose fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic and herbs can elevate the flavor profile significantly. If you’re in a pinch and need to enhance the sauce’s depth, a splash of red wine or a dash of balsamic vinegar can do wonders. Remember, patience is key when simmering the sauce; give it time to develop its robust flavor, just like Mama Lou taught me. Learn more: Irresistible Shrimp and Pasta Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread, warm and buttery, is always a welcome companion. For a touch of elegance, consider serving with a glass of Chianti or a light-bodied red wine, reminiscent of the meals shared with my sister Ouma, as we laughed and clinked glasses in celebration of simple pleasures.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, stirring every minute to ensure even heating. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a delightful meal to revisit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipes with ground beef?
The main ingredients for pasta recipes with ground beef include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make pasta recipes with ground beef?
The total time to make pasta recipes with ground beef includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipes with ground beef ahead of time?
Yes, pasta recipes with ground beef can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with pasta recipes with ground beef?
pasta recipes with ground beef pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipes with ground beef suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipes with ground beef may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Creating pasta recipes with ground beef is more than just making a meal; it’s about crafting a memory. Each time I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of the evenings spent in Mama Lou’s kitchen, where love was the main ingredient. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. May it become a cherished part of your culinary tradition, carrying with it the warmth and connection of shared meals and stories.
