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Beef Pasta Recipe in Tomato Sauce

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Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a cozy, satisfying dish made with tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and your favorite pasta. It’s an easy, one-pan meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or short pasta)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
  6. Add crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce), sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  7. Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss until well coated.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs and Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use jarred marinara or tomato basil sauce for a quicker version.
  • Add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrition.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Turn it into a baked pasta with mozzarella on top.
  • Freezes well for up to 2 months—perfect for make-ahead meals.

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