Pasta and Ground Beef Recipes: A Delicious and Versatile Guide
Pasta and ground beef—a classic pairing that's both comforting and endlessly adaptable! This guide explores a variety of recipes, catering to different skill levels and preferences, ensuring you find your new favorite meal. We'll cover everything from simple weeknight dinners to more elaborate dishes perfect for impressing guests. Let's dive into the world of delicious pasta and ground beef combinations!
Simple and Speedy Ground Beef Pasta Recipes
These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal on the table quickly. They require minimal ingredients and cooking time, without compromising on flavor.
One-Pot Ground Beef and Tomato Pasta:
This recipe is a family favorite for its ease and incredible flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the pasta and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Speedy Spaghetti with Meat Sauce:
A quick take on a classic, perfect for a casual meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 ounces) your favorite pasta sauce
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
- While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
- Stir in the pasta sauce and heat through.
- Drain the spaghetti and toss with the meat sauce. Serve with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Elevated Ground Beef Pasta Recipes
These recipes take the classic combination to the next level, incorporating additional flavors and techniques for a more sophisticated dining experience.
Creamy Tuscan Ground Beef Pasta:
This rich and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta (fettuccine or tagliatelle recommended)
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately.
Spicy Ground Beef and Sausage Pasta with Calabrian Chiles:
A bold and flavorful dish for adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
(This recipe requires some pantry staples like Calabrian chiles which can be substituted with your preferred level of spice)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Calabrian chili paste (or more, to taste)
- 1 lb pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef and sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, and Calabrian chili paste. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Remember to adjust seasoning according to your preferences. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and cheeses to create your unique ground beef pasta masterpieces! Enjoy!
