This Easy Ground Beef Pasta is a lifesaver for busy nights! With flavorful beef, tender pasta, and a zesty sauce, it’s a hearty meal that comes together in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A great protein choice here, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter option. I often mix beef and pork for extra flavor!
Onion: When I’m in a hurry, I use frozen chopped onions. They save time and still add great taste. Sweet onions work too if you prefer milder flavors.
Pasta: While I love penne for its shape and texture, you can use any short pasta you have, like fusilli or bowties. Gluten-free pasta also works well if needed!
Tomato Sauce: If you’re in a pinch, use pasta sauce or marinara instead of diced tomatoes and sauce. It’s just as tasty and can save you some steps!
How Do I Make Sure the Pasta Cooks Perfectly?
Cooking pasta in the sauce helps infuse it with flavor, but you want to make sure it doesn’t turn mushy. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Keep an eye on the liquid. It should be enough to cover the pasta but not swimming in sauce. Add a bit more broth if needed.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check the pasta’s doneness a minute or two before the time is up. It should be al dente, tender but with a slight bite.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked pasta mixed with all those delicious flavors! Enjoy this quick and easy meal any night of the week.
Easy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe for Busy Nights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz/225g) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making your total time around 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick but tasty.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and soft.
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir it in. Sauté for another 30 seconds until you can smell the fragrant garlic.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Keep stirring until the meat is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s extra fat, drain it off.
4. Stir in the Sauces:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the Pasta:
Add the dry pasta right into the sauce mixture. Give it a good stir to combine everything and bring it back to a simmer.
6. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed a lot of the liquid. If it looks too dry, feel free to add a splash more beef broth.
7. Finish with Cheese:
Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Gently stir it in until it’s incorporated.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you want, then serve it up hot. Enjoy your easy ground beef pasta with family or friends!
This one-pot ground beef pasta is simple, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a leaner option. Just cook it the same way as the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. The flavors will still be delicious!
What if I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Water can also work in a pinch, but the dish may lack some depth of flavor, so consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to enhance it.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop! If it seems dry, add a little extra broth or water when reheating to bring it back to life.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, definitely! You can add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just sauté them with the onions for a few extra minutes before adding the beef. They’ll add flavor and nutrition to the dish!
