Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

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When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, few dishes can compete with a bowl of pasta smothered in rich, flavorful tomato sauce. Add tender, juicy ground beef into the mix, and you’ve got a recipe destined to become a family favorite. This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce (Beef Ragu Pasta) is an easy-to-make, one-pot wonder that promises comfort in every bite. With minimal prep and a handful of simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

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Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special: a perfectly balanced combination of tender pasta, savory beef, aromatic herbs, and velvety tomato sauce. The result? A meal that’s not only incredibly delicious but also easy enough for even beginner cooks to master. Here’s a step-by-step guide to recreating this culinary classic at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes mean less cleanup, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
• Kid-Friendly: The rich, savory flavors appeal to kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: With plenty of room for variations and substitutions, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. Each one plays an essential role in building the layers of flavor that make this dish irresistible.

1. Pasta (8 ounces)

Opt for your favorite pasta shape—penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work beautifully as they hold the sauce well. You can also use spaghetti or linguine for a more traditional take.

2. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)

This provides a rich, fruity base for sautéing the aromatics, adding depth to the dish.

3. Lean Ground Beef (1 pound)

The star of the show, lean ground beef lends a meaty heartiness to the sauce. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

4. Sweet Onion (1/2, chopped)

Aromatic and slightly sweet, onion builds a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

5. Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

A must-have in any ragu, garlic enhances the savory depth of the sauce with its pungent aroma and flavor.

6. Italian Seasoning (1 1/2 teaspoons)

A classic blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme ties all the flavors together.

7. Instant Bouillon Cube (1 tablespoon)

This secret ingredient packs a punch of umami, amplifying the savory notes of the beef and sauce.

8. Marinara Tomato Sauce (15 ounces)

Opt for a high-quality canned marinara sauce for a robust, tangy base. You can also make your own if time allows.

9. Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)

Seasoning is key—adjust to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

10. Shredded Parmesan Cheese (1 cup)

This adds creaminess and a salty umami kick that pairs perfectly with the beef and tomato sauce.

11. Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped)

Bright and herbaceous, parsley adds a fresh finishing touch that balances the richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare a flavorful and satisfying Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce:

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions.
• Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and the bouillon cube, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the Beef

• Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring even browning.
• Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
• Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.

4. Simmer the Sauce

• Stir the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow the flavors to meld together for about 8 minutes.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
• If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

6. Finish with Cheese and Herbs

• Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Allow the cheese to melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, cohesive dish.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

This pasta dish delivers a symphony of flavors and textures:

• Flavor: The savory beef and tangy tomato sauce are complemented by the herbaceous Italian seasoning and rich Parmesan.
• Texture: Al dente pasta provides a tender bite, while the beef adds a hearty, satisfying chew.
• Aroma: The dish is infused with the mouthwatering fragrance of garlic, onions, and simmering tomato sauce, making it irresistible.

Tips and Variations

Substitutions

• Pasta: Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a healthier twist.
• Protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles can be used as a substitute for beef.
• Cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different cheese flavor.

Additions

• Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
• Creaminess: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a rich, velvety sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.
• Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, for an elevated dining experience.

Encourage Your Inner Chef

This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or indulging in a solo comfort meal, this recipe guarantees smiles and satisfied bellies. Give it a try, and let the irresistible aroma of beef ragu transform your kitchen into a haven of culinary delight.