Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This pasta with meat sauce recipe is a timeless classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients transformed into a hearty and flavorful dish. Forget complicated techniques and expensive ingredients; this recipe is all about achieving amazing taste with straightforward steps. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade Italian delight!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed for larger or smaller groups.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped (mirepoix)
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 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
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery (the mirepoix) and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the flavor base of our sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Make sure the beef is thoroughly cooked to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute more, until fragrant. The garlic adds a pungent note that complements the other herbs beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Don't overcook the pasta; you want it to have a slight bite to it.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Drain the pasta and add it to the pot with the meat sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Pasta
- For a richer sauce: Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a nice kick.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. Use a nutritional calculator for a precise analysis. Generally, this dish is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, with a moderate fat content.
This recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights and is easily customizable to your preferences. Enjoy your homemade pasta with meat sauce!