Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that doesn't take all night to prepare? Then look no further! This Ground Beef Farfalle recipe is your answer. It's a simple, healthy, and incredibly delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick dinner idea for even the most novice home cooks. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this homemade culinary delight!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular, your preference!)
- 1 medium 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
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound farfalle pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a delicious base of flavor for your sauce.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for at least 15 minutes. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the farfalle pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining – this can be used to thin the sauce if needed.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. This delicious and healthy meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ground Beef Farfalle:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add some vegetables: Include chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or ricotta cheese at the end for a creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on ingredients used)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Variations:
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Cheese lover's delight: Add different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone along with the Parmesan.
This Ground Beef Farfalle recipe is a versatile and delicious option for a quick and easy dinner. Enjoy!