Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Tender pasta tangled up with rich beef, sweet onions, aromatic herbs, and a silky blanket of tomato sauce—does comfort get any cozier? This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a weeknight dream come true: hearty, packed with flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes. If you’re searching for a satisfying, fuss-free dinner that makes you feel like you’re dining in a rustic trattoria, this is your go-to recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce requires only classic staples, but each one brings something special. Together, they create perfect balance and body—meaty, tangy, and impossibly luscious.

• Pasta (8 ounces): Use your favorite shape—penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti—all soak up the sauce wonderfully.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruitiness and ensures a glossy sauté for the onions.
• Lean ground beef (1 pound): Gives the dish its hearty, meaty backbone—choose lean for less grease but all the flavor.
• Sweet onion, chopped (1/2): Infuses the base with gentle sweetness and soft texture.
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves): The aromatic kick that makes the sauce sing.
• Italian seasoning (1 1/2 teaspoons): A blend of dried herbs that whispers of the Mediterranean.
• Instant bouillon cube (1 tablespoon, chicken or beef): Deepens the savory flavor and ties everything together.
• Marinara tomato sauce (1 15-ounce can): The soul of the sauce—choose a good-quality jar or homemade for best results.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon each, to taste): Essential for brightening and balancing the bold flavors.
• Shredded parmesan cheese (1 cup): The creamy, umami-rich finish that melts into the sauce.
• Fresh chopped parsley (1 tablespoon): For color, aroma, and a final hit of freshness.

Variations

One of the delights of Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is how easy it is to tweak. Make it your own, whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, adding extra veggies, or swapping out ingredients for a twist!

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a gentle heat that perks up the sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a lighter or meatless version that’s just as satisfying.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dinner friendly for everyone at the table.

How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of generously salted water. Toss in your pasta and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside—don’t forget to save a splash of the pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later!

Step 2: Sauté Onions & Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add in the minced garlic, the Italian seasoning, and bouillon cube, stirring until the air smells savory and the mix is golden—about a minute more.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Increase the heat and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break the meat up with a wooden spoon, cooking until it’s well browned and no longer pink—about 5 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off for a lighter sauce.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the marinara tomato sauce. Stir well to coat all the beef, and let it bubble gently over medium heat for 8 minutes. The sauce will thicken, the flavors deepen, and your kitchen will start to smell utterly amazing.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Taste and adjust the sauce with kosher salt and black pepper. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine, letting the noodles soak up every drop of that savory, meaty goodness. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of your reserved pasta water for a silken finish.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Stir in chopped parsley and half the parmesan, letting the cheese melt into the sauce for a glossy, creamy texture. Plate up, shower with more parmesan and the rest of the parsley, and serve your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce piping hot!

How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Garnishes

The finishing touches can take your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce from delicious to irresistible. A flourish of extra parmesan, a bit more fresh parsley, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper add flair, color, and brightness. If you have it, a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving is pure magic.

Side Dishes

This comforting pasta is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a simple plate of roasted vegetables brings color and crunch to your table. And of course, don’t forget warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner party twist, ladle Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce into individual bowls and top each with parmesan curls and a parsley leaf. Or, pile it into a big, family-style dish and let everyone help themselves—just like Nonna would! For extra elegance, serve with a nest of pasta in the center and spoon the beef ragu sauce on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce tasting fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to!

Freezing

You can freeze the beef and sauce mixture (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight, then toss with freshly cooked pasta for a speedy, comforting meal any time you crave it.

Reheating

To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the pasta and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. This ensures the sauce stays silky and the pasta remains perfectly tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s simple, reliable, and gives you all that Italian-inspired comfort, give Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce a try. It’s a dish that turns everyday ingredients into something truly special—and it’s guaranteed to win hearts around your table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget an extra sprinkle of parmesan for good measure!

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