Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe

In the mood for a pasta dinner that’s cozy, hearty, and endlessly satisfying? This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Tender pasta catches every bit of beefy, flavorful ragu—think robust tomato, juicy ground beef, Parmesan, and a medley of Italian herbs, all coming together for a plate of pure comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is that it needs only a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh touches—each one playing a big role in flavor, color, and texture. Let’s break down how each ingredient makes this dish unforgettable.

• 8 ounces of pasta: Any shape you love works here—rigatoni, penne, or even spaghetti. Choose something with grooves to capture more sauce!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything sauté beautifully.
• 1 pound of lean ground beef: The heart of the ragu, bringing protein and lots of savory flavor.
• 1/2 sweet onion, chopped: Lends natural sweetness and irresistible aroma as it cooks down.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of depth and classic Italian flair.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A simple blend of herbs makes the sauce instantly complex and aromatic.
• 1 tablespoon instant bouillon cube (chicken or beef): Boosts umami and richness—don’t skip it!
• 1 (15-ounce) can marinara tomato sauce: This is your saucy base, thick and tangy, ready to cling to every noodle.
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for creaminess and a little salty edge.
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley: Adds color and a burst of freshness right at the end.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is how easy it is to make your own. Whether you’re craving a spicy kick, feeding vegetarians, or sneaking in extra veggies, you’ve got options—so let’s get creative!

• Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for different flavors and lighter options.
• Go Veggie-Heavy: Add bell peppers, chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrition and color.
• Cheesy Top: Broil with a layer of mozzarella cheese before serving for bubbly, golden perfection.
• Heat It Up: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you love a little fire in your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce.

How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Boil and Drain the Pasta

Start by boiling your favorite pasta in a large pot of salted water until perfectly al dente (follow the package instructions for timing). Once done, drain and set aside—you want it ready to soak up all that luscious ragu.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring often, until it’s soft, fragrant, and just turning golden. Now, toss in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crumbled bouillon cube, stirring until aromatic—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up as it browns, until there’s no pink left. Drain any excess fat if needed—this step is key for a rich but not greasy sauce.

Step 4: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the marinara tomato sauce, give everything a good stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce bubble away for about 8 minutes, letting all those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in your cooked pasta. Add the chopped parsley and generous handfuls of Parmesan; stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it creamy and irresistible. Serve immediately—extra sprinkle of cheese on top is always a good idea!

How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Garnishes

For that irresistible finishing touch, top your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce with freshly grated Parmesan, a shower of chopped parsley, or even a few torn basil leaves. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes also makes each bowl feel restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This pasta is bold and hearty, so pair it with something refreshing like a crisp green salad, or classic sides like garlic bread or roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine never hurts, either!

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce family-style in a big, rustic bowl, or portioned out into individual ramekins and topped with extra cheese for a bubbly, golden finish under the broiler. For casual entertaining, serve it with antipasto platters for a cozy Italian-inspired spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce cool completely before storing. Pop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days—the flavors seem to get even better!

Freezing

If you’re making ahead for a rainy day, freeze the sauce and pasta separately for best texture. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and enjoy within 2 months for maximum flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water, broth, or extra sauce if needed to loosen it up. Microwave works in a pinch—just cover to prevent splatter and stir halfway through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a soul-warming dinner that’s effortless but loaded with flavor, Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is the answer. I hope you’ll try it soon—don’t be surprised when it’s requested again and again. Buon appetito!

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