Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ground Beef Pasta In Tomato Sauce

Ground Beef Pasta In Tomato Sauce

A cozy and satisfying Ground Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce recipe that comes together quickly using simple pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish features seasoned ground beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce tossed with pasta. Family-friendly, versatile, and easy to customize with veggies or spices, it delivers comforting flavors and minimal cleanup for a delicious meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Tomato Sauce

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Pasta and Garnishes

  • 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or favorite shape)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
  • Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics and Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned with no pink remaining.
  2. Build the Tomato Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Add dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken and flavors to meld.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta to the simmering sauce. Toss to coat well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Serve pasta hot, sprinkled with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optionally topped with chopped fresh basil or parsley for freshness and color.

Notes

  • Use freshly minced garlic for better aroma than pre-minced versions.
  • Make sure to brown the ground beef well for deeper flavor and caramelization.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to keep tomato flavors balanced and tender.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce texture and improve coating.
  • Season gradually and taste during cooking to achieve perfect salt and pepper balance.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Can be made Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: ground beef pasta, tomato sauce pasta, quick pasta recipe, family dinner, one-pot pasta, easy weeknight meal