Quick and Easy Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is the perfect dish. Ground beef is simmered in a savory tomato sauce with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs, creating a flavorful base that coats the pasta beautifully. The addition of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley adds a touch of richness and brightness, making this dish an all-time family favorite.

This recipe is quick and easy, ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Best of all, it’s made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this beef pasta dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a Must-Try

This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce combines the comfort of a classic beef ragu with the convenience of a one-pot meal. The ground beef adds protein and richness, while the tomato sauce brings acidity and depth of flavor. The combination of garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness, and the Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, savory finish. The best part? It comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it the ideal dish for busy nights.

Unlike other beef pasta dishes that can be heavy, this recipe strikes a perfect balance—rich in flavor but not overwhelming. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for everyone in the family to enjoy. The leftovers are even better, allowing you to savor this delicious dish for days.

Ingredients for Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials:

• Pasta: Any pasta works well in this recipe. We recommend using a medium or large pasta shape like penne, rigatoni, or shells. These shapes hold the sauce beautifully and provide a nice bite.
• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is ideal, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try substituting with mushrooms or plant-based meat.
• Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite marinara or tomato sauce for a flavorful base. You can also use crushed tomatoes or a combination of tomato paste and water if you prefer a thicker sauce.
• Garlic & Onion: These aromatic ingredients provide the foundation of flavor for the sauce. The onion adds sweetness, while the garlic brings warmth and depth.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. This adds a burst of Italian flavor to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the perfect finishing touch, adding creaminess and a savory flavor that complements the beef and tomato sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens up the dish and adds a fresh, herbaceous note.

Steps to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to save a bit of pasta water in case you need it to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

This step is crucial as it forms the aromatic base of your sauce. Don’t skip it, as it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions and the savory warmth of the garlic.

3. Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks, ensuring that it browns evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.

Browning the beef is essential to developing the rich, savory flavor that makes this pasta dish so comforting.

4. Add the Seasonings and Tomato Sauce

Once the beef is browned, stir in the Italian seasoning and instant bouillon cube (either chicken or beef). This will help deepen the flavor of the sauce. Then, add the marinara sauce and stir everything together. Bring the sauce to a simmer, and let it cook for about 8 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have come together, toss in the cooked pasta. Stir everything together to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the rich beef and tomato sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency.

6. Add Parmesan and Garnish

Finally, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This adds a creamy, salty note that complements the hearty beef and tangy tomato base.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

To make this recipe even better, here are some helpful tips and tricks that will ensure your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce turns out perfect every time:

1. Use Quality Beef

For the best flavor, use lean ground beef with a good fat content. If you want a slightly healthier version, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken. These options will reduce the fat content but still provide a great base for the sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, mushrooms are a fantastic substitute for beef. Their texture and umami flavor will mimic the meatiness of the ground beef, creating a hearty, plant-based pasta dish.

2. Enhance the Flavor with Fresh Herbs

While dried Italian seasoning works well, using fresh herbs can elevate the dish. Fresh basil, oregano, and thyme add brightness and complexity to the sauce. You can either add these herbs directly to the sauce or garnish the dish just before serving.

3. Adjust the Tomato Sauce Consistency

The key to a great pasta sauce is the right consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of pasta water to thin it out. On the other hand, if the sauce is too thin, allow it to simmer for a bit longer to reduce and thicken.

4. Make It Spicy (If You Like)

If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce. Calabrian chili peppers are also a fantastic addition to the sauce if you like extra heat and flavor. Adjust the spice to your liking for the perfect balance.

5. Don’t Skip the Parmesan

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is an essential part of this dish. It adds creaminess and a savory, umami flavor that ties everything together. Always use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated cheese, as the latter doesn’t melt as well and lacks the depth of flavor.

6. Let the Sauce Simmer

Simmering the sauce for at least 8 minutes allows the flavors to develop and thicken. The longer you simmer, the more concentrated the flavors become. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Variations You Can Try

This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce recipe is versatile, and you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. Here are some variations to try:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils to create a hearty vegetarian version of this pasta.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, try adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce. They’ll add texture and color while enhancing the dish’s flavor.
• Cheese Variations: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano, which has a sharper, more tangy flavor. You can also experiment with vegan cheese if you prefer a dairy-free option.
• Spicy Beef Pasta: For those who love spice, add a few diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot Italian sausage instead of regular ground beef for a spicy kick.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can easily store them and enjoy the dish later. Here’s how:

1. Storing Leftovers

• In the Fridge: Place the leftover beef pasta in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef sauce separately from the pasta. The sauce can be stored for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

2. Reheating Leftovers

• On the Stove: To reheat, place the pasta and sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce, and stir occasionally until hot.
• In the Microwave: If you prefer to use the microwave, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of water to keep the sauce from drying out.

Pairing Ideas

This dish is rich and satisfying, and it pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great ideas to round out the meal:

• Garlic Bread: A slice of crispy garlic bread is the perfect side to mop up the extra sauce. You can make it with regular or vegan butter, and sprinkle with garlic, parsley, and Parmesan.
• Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette will add freshness and balance to the meal. The acidity from the dressing helps cut through the richness of the beef and tomato sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers are a great addition to this dish, offering extra flavor and texture.

FAQs On Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

1. What is pasta with tomato sauce called?

Pasta with tomato sauce is often referred to as Pasta al Pomodoro in Italian cuisine, which simply means “pasta with tomato.” It is a classic and simple dish made with pasta and a tomato-based sauce, often enhanced with garlic, herbs, and olive oil. In the case of Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce, the dish includes a savory beef sauce combined with marinara or tomato sauce for a rich, hearty meal.

2. How to make beef sauce for pasta?

To make a beef sauce for pasta, start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant. Then, add ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces. Stir in tomato paste and marinara sauce, and let the sauce simmer for about 8 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and finish with Parmesan cheese for added richness.

3. What pasta goes well with tomato sauce?

Tomato sauce pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes, but the best choices are those with surfaces that can hold the sauce well. Some popular pasta types for tomato sauce include:

• Spaghetti: A classic choice for pasta with tomato sauce.
• Penne: The tube shape holds sauce well, making it a great option for meat sauces.
• Fusilli: The spiral shape captures the sauce perfectly.
• Rigatoni: Large, ridged pasta that holds plenty of sauce.
• Pappardelle: Wide, flat pasta that pairs beautifully with chunky tomato sauces.

4. Can I make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce ahead of time. You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and toss it with the reheated sauce. The flavors will meld together even more, making it an ideal dish for meal prepping.

5. How do I make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version of Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce, you can easily adjust the heat level. Here are a few ways to do that:

• Add red pepper flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a subtle heat to the sauce.
• Use spicy Italian sausage: Instead of regular ground beef, opt for spicy Italian sausage for a more intense flavor.
• Add fresh chili peppers: For more heat, chop up fresh chili peppers and cook them with the onions and garlic.

Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe Card

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta:
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon instant bouillon cube (chicken or beef)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can marinara tomato sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

2. Prepare the Beef Sauce:

   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and bouillon cube. Cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Brown the Ground Beef:

   • Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart while cooking. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Add Marinara Sauce:

   • Stir in the marinara sauce, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.

6. Finish the Dish:

   • Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined with the sauce. Let the pasta simmer for 2-3 more minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes:

• Vegetarian Option: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat to make this dish lighter or vegetarian.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to give the dish some extra heat.
• Make Ahead: This dish is great for meal prepping. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply cook the pasta and reheat the sauce when ready to serve.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian, Pasta