Pasta with Beef: A Flavorful Italian Feast
Pasta with beef is a classic Italian-American dish, a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe focuses on achieving a rich, savory sauce that complements the tender beef and perfectly cooked pasta. Let's dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
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For the Beef:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
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For the Pasta:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Browning the Beef
This crucial step develops a deep flavor in your sauce. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
Step 2: Building the Sauce
In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Simmering to Perfection
Return the browned beef to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender. Stir occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes!
Step 4: Cooking the Pasta
While the beef simmers, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 5: Combining and Serving
Once the beef is tender, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add the cooked pasta to the pot and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips for an Even Better Dish:
- Use quality ingredients: The better the beef and tomatoes, the better the taste!
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
- Wine Pairing: A hearty red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs perfectly with this dish.
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