If you are craving a hearty yet comforting meal that brings the family together effortlessly, this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, fragrant tomato sauce that’s bursting with Italian herbs and garlic. Each bite delivers a delicious balance of savory meatiness and tangy tomato goodness, enriched by creamy Parmesan and fresh parsley. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple to make but endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, everyday ingredients that pack a flavorful punch together. Each component plays a crucial role: from the lean ground beef adding protein and texture, to the vibrant marinara sauce bringing color and that classic tomato tang. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this tasty dish.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose your favorite shape; it acts as the perfect base soaking up all the sauce.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing to build flavor and keep things moist.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Adds a hearty, meaty texture that makes this dish a true comfort meal.
- 1/2 sweet onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic punch that defines Italian-inspired dishes.
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the tomato sauce with fragrant complexity.
- 1 tbsp instant bouillon cube (chicken or beef): Adds a savory umami depth to the sauce.
- 1 (15 oz) can marinara tomato sauce: The base of the sauce, providing vibrant tomato flavor and moisture.
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a mild heat and balance.
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Gives a creamy, nutty finish when stirred in.
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness to the completed dish.
How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by filling a large pot with salted water and bringing it to a boil. Toss in your pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Properly drained pasta will soak up the sauce beautifully without getting mushy, so make sure to keep an eye on the timing. Set it aside once done.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped sweet onion and cook until it turns translucent and soft—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic along with your Italian seasoning and the crushed bouillon cube. Cook just long enough for the garlic and herbs to release their fragrant aromas, roughly a minute.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Time to bring in the star ingredient: the ground beef. Add it directly to the skillet and break it up with a spatula. Cook it until no pink remains and it turns a rich brown color—about 5 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep your sauce silky yet not greasy.
Step 4: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting it bubble gently while stirring occasionally. This simmering, which takes around 8 minutes, allows all the flavors to meld together into a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to each strand of pasta.
Step 5: Season and Combine
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Now, add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything until each piece is coated generously with that flavorful sauce. This step makes sure the pasta soaks up every bit of the deliciousness.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Parsley
Finally, stir in the shredded Parmesan and fresh parsley. Keep stirring just until the cheese melts into creamy goodness, giving the dish a smooth, indulgent finish. Serve the pasta piping hot for the ultimate satisfying experience.
How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and a little more fresh parsley on top for an inviting look and an added burst of flavor. You can even add a few chili flakes for a touch of heat if you enjoy a bit of spice.
Side Dishes
This beef pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the rich tomato sauce. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are also perfect for soaking up any extra sauce—never let good sauce go to waste!
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the pasta in a large, rustic bowl right at the center of the table, inviting everyone to dig in. Alternatively, individual servings arranged in shallow pasta plates with a sprinkle of parsley add an elegant touch. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top just before serving can elevate the presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This dish freezes well and makes for a great prepared meal. Divide into portions and freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it feels a bit dry. Microwaving works too; just cover the container to trap moisture and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While traditional spaghetti or penne works beautifully, you can use any pasta shape you love. Just adjust cooking times as needed to keep the perfect bite.
Is ground beef the only meat option?
Not at all. You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a different flavor or to accommodate dietary preferences.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it, then cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve. This makes mealtime super quick and convenient.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, simply simmer it a bit longer uncovered so excess liquid evaporates. Alternatively, stirring in a small amount of tomato paste can boost thickness and richness.
What if I don’t have instant bouillon cubes?
If you don’t have bouillon cubes, you can use a pinch of beef or chicken broth powder, or a splash of broth to provide depth to the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe is a true classic that never fails to please. Its comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to for busy nights or whenever you want a soul-warming meal. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So grab those ingredients and get cooking—great dinners don’t get any easier or more delicious than this!
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Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting and hearty Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce recipe that combines al dente pasta with a savory ground beef and marinara mixture, enhanced by Italian seasoning and fresh Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish brings rich flavors and satisfying textures all in one bowl.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta
Sauce and Beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp instant bouillon cube (chicken or beef)
- 1 (15 oz) can marinara tomato sauce
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, instant bouillon, and Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, crumbling the beef as it cooks, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer: Stir in the marinara tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Season to Taste and Combine with Pasta: Adjust the seasoning with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then stir the cooked pasta into the sauce until well combined.
- Finish with Cheese and Parsley: Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce over 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and keep the dish healthier.
- Instant bouillon adds depth to the sauce but you can substitute with beef or chicken broth if preferred.
- Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during the simmering step.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
