Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying weeknight dinner that’s also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This ground lamb pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly healthy, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for any home cook. Forget takeout – homemade deliciousness is just minutes away! This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals coming together perfectly. It's one of those best recipes that elevates a simple pasta night into a culinary adventure.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 large 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)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Brown the Lamb: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground lamb and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. 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: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. 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 parsley.
Tips for the Best Ground Lamb Pasta:
- Don't overcook the lamb: Overcooked lamb can be dry and tough. Cook it until it's browned and cooked through, but not dry.
- Use good quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh herbs whenever possible.
- Adjust the spices to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or other spices to suit your taste preferences. A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the sautéing stage.
Variations:
- Spicy Lamb Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Mediterranean Lamb Pasta: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Creamy Lamb Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
This ground lamb pasta recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest. It's a flexible and delicious recipe that you can easily adapt to your own preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!