If you’ve ever craved a comforting, hearty meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor, you are going to love this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, savory tomato sauce, kissed with aromatic herbs and tender ground beef that brings it all together beautifully. This dish is not only a classic Italian-American favorite but also a reliable weeknight winner that delivers warmth in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe hits all the right notes to keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making a memorable Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe. Each component plays an important role—from the texture of the pasta, the richness of the beef, to the brightness of the tomato sauce—making the final dish a delightful experience.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni): These shapes hold sauce beautifully, giving every bite maximum flavor coverage.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps brown the beef evenly.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this dish fulfilling and tasty.
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped: Creates a sweet, aromatic foundation for the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the dish with classic Italian flavor and depth.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The star of the sauce, providing tang and richness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce nicely.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a warm, earthy herb note that compliments the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a sweet, fragrant lift to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick for those who like some gentle heat.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors in the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, robust spiciness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the pasta for that irresistible creamy finish.
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens the presentation and adds a touch of freshness.
How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures the pasta has just the right bite and won’t turn mushy when tossed with the sauce later. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside while you work on the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or saucepan. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Browning the beef deeply adds intense flavor that makes this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe so special. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the sauce from getting greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. These aromatics are the heart of the sauce, lending sweetness and savory depth that complements the beef perfectly.
Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Simmer With Crushed Tomatoes
Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for about a minute. This step intensifies the tomato flavor. Then, add the crushed tomatoes along with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes. This slow simmering helps the sauce thicken and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss everything to ensure each piece is coated with that luscious sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the pasta for an extra layer of indulgence. Heat it through for another 1 to 2 minutes, then it’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only brightens the dish’s colors but also adds a subtle fresh note that balances the rich sauce perfectly. If you love a little more cheese, offer extra Parmesan at the table for topping.
Side Dishes
This beef pasta pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty loaf is also perfect for soaking up every last bit of that fabulous tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get creative, serve this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe in individual small bowls topped with a roasted cherry tomato and a basil leaf for elegance. For a crowd-pleasing touch, bake it briefly with mozzarella sprinkled on top until golden and bubbly—a pasta bake twist that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover beef pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, keeping the sauce and pasta together for convenience. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its wonderful flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving works too—just cover the dish and heat in intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni are fantastic for holding the sauce, you can swap in fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti depending on your preference. The key is to pick a pasta shape that captures the sauce well.
Is ground beef necessary, or can I use other meats?
You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef for a different flavor profile or a lighter option. Just adjust the seasoning to taste, as sausage often brings extra spices.
How spicy is this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe?
The red pepper flakes are optional, so you control the heat level. Without them, the dish is mild and comforting, perfect for all ages. Add a pinch or two if you want a gentle warmth.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese to keep it dairy-free. You can also add nutritional yeast or a drizzle of olive oil at the end to add a touch of savory richness.
What’s the best way to thicken the tomato sauce if it seems too watery?
Simmering the sauce longer will naturally reduce and thicken it. You can also stir in a small spoonful of tomato paste to boost thickness and flavor without diluting the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. With its rich flavors, straightforward preparation, and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every satisfying mouthful!
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Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Dairy-Free option if Parmesan is omitted
Description
A classic Italian-American beef pasta dish featuring tender penne or rigatoni pasta tossed in a rich and savory tomato sauce made with ground beef, garlic, onions, and aromatic dried herbs. This comforting and easy-to-make skillet meal comes together in just 35 minutes and is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add tomato paste: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Simmer the sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter at the end.
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef.
- This dish reheats well and can be made a day ahead for even better flavor.
- Omit Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option.
