Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for One-Pan Ground Beef Italian is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is easily customizable to your liking. This healthy meal is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a delicious alternative to takeout. Let's dive into this amazing recipe!
One-Pan Ground Beef Italian: A Quick and Easy Recipe
This recipe is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a truly satisfying dish. It's perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Consider this your go-to recipe for easy recipes that deliver big on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
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Brown the beef: In a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Stir well to combine. Add the water, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld.
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Combine and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Gently toss in the cooked pasta. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the sautéing stage.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of 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 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Spicy Italian: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Baked Version: Transfer the sauce to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes for a bubbly, comforting casserole.
This easy and delicious One-Pan Ground Beef Italian recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a flavorful and satisfying meal. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!