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Savory Ground Beef Pasta Recipe Quick and Easy Dinner Idea

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A quick and easy savory ground beef pasta recipe perfect for busy weeknights, combining browned ground beef with garlic, herbs, and pasta for a comforting and hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, or fusilli)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, break it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  3. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion to the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Mix in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, and 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavors.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Combine cooked pasta with the beef sauce in the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
  7. Turn off heat and stir in 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese for creaminess.
  8. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and moisture. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Avoid burning garlic by adding it after onions are translucent. Drain excess fat if beef is very fatty. Gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese can be substituted for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, weeknight meal, savory pasta, beef pasta, Italian herbs, comfort food

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/savory-ground-beef-pasta-recipe-quick-and-easy-dinner-idea/