About This Recipe
There’s something so comforting about a bubbling pot of pasta on the stove, especially one packed with flavor and made with love. This Ground Beef Pasta Recipe is one of those meals I lean on when the day has been long, my energy is low, and my family’s tummies are rumbling. It comes together quickly, doesn’t require a ton of ingredients, and still tastes like I spent hours on it - the perfect weeknight dinner win!
I remember the first time I made it. Sultan walked into the kitchen, sniffed the air, and said, “Whoa, what smells so good?” That’s how I knew I was onto something special. We’ve made it dozens of times since then, and it always hits the spot.
I remember the first time I made it. Sultan walked into the kitchen, sniffed the air, and said, “Whoa, what smells so good?” That’s how I knew I was onto something special. We’ve made it dozens of times since then, and it always hits the spot.
Kitchen Tools for Beefy Pasta
For this hearty Ground Beef Pasta Recipe, you’ll need simple tools like a skillet, colander, and cutting board. I’ve linked some durable, high-quality options—many with great deals! These basics make cooking and cleanup smooth and stress-free.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb ground beef (85/15)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Break it up with a spatula, and drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3
Add diced onion and cook until softened, 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
Step 4
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5
Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Sprinkle in mozzarella and Parmesan, stir until melted and creamy.
Step 6
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. Optional: Extra cheese on top — always a good idea!
Nutrition Information
Calories
520
Saturated Fat
7g
Carbs
48g
Sugars
6g
Protein
28g
Sodium
580mg
Fiber
4g
Secret Tips
Brown the beef properly - Let it sear without stirring too much - that caramelization adds big flavor!
Use reserved pasta water - It helps the sauce cling to the noodles and creates a silky texture.
Grate cheese fresh - Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that don’t melt as well.
Use reserved pasta water - It helps the sauce cling to the noodles and creates a silky texture.
Grate cheese fresh - Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that don’t melt as well.
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