This easy ground beef pasta dinner is a one-pot wonder! With tender pasta, delicious beef, and a tasty tomato sauce, it’s a meal everyone will love.
It’s super quick to make, perfect for busy nights. I often throw in some veggies for extra color and flavor. Who knew dinner could be this simple and tasty? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! I usually go for lean ground beef for fewer calories. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
Pasta: Penne or rotini are my favorites because they hold onto the sauce well. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or try zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a veggie boost!
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add great flavor. If you have fresh tomatoes, feel free to chop them up instead! You can also add some tomato paste for richer flavor.
Cheese: Cheese adds creaminess. Mozzarella is my go-to, but cheddar works too. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based cheese or simply skip it.
How Do I Make Sure the Pasta Turns Out Perfectly?
Cooking pasta in the same pot as the beef sauce is convenient, but you need to watch it closely. Wait until your mixture is boiling before adding the pasta. Keep it covered during simmering to trap steam, speeding up the cooking process.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If it looks too dry, add a splash of water or broth.
- Check for doneness by tasting the pasta a minute or two before the time is up.
- Let it rest covered for a couple of minutes after cooking, which helps it finish cooking while cooling slightly.
Easy Ground Beef Pasta Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy ground beef pasta dinner takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal that can be ready in about 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pan, using a spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off before moving on to the next step.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Next, stir in the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing everything together so it’s well combined.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom and that it cooks evenly.
5. Add the Cheese:
When the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top if you’re using it. Cover the pot again and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, comforting ground beef pasta dinner!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Pasta Dinner
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great healthier substitute. Just note that it may require a slightly longer cooking time and absorbs more liquid, so you might need to add a bit more broth or water to the dish while it cooks.
Can I Make This Recipe with Ground Turkey or Chicken?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for ground beef. They will provide a lighter dish, but you may want to add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor as they are typically milder.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Cool the leftovers to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warm throughout.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté them with the onions at the beginning, or stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
