Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dinner recipe? Look no further! This Penne Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is a perfect weeknight meal solution, ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a classic comfort food, elevated with fresh herbs and simple seasonings, proving that delicious doesn't have to mean complicated. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for you. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, providing a healthy and satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 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 penne pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes. This is a great time to get the pasta cooking!
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining – this helps create a creamier sauce if needed.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, add it to the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. This easy recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that don’t require hours in the kitchen.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
- If you don't have fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead (use about 1/4 teaspoon).
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled vegetarian sausage or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate for a serving (assuming lean ground beef) is around 400-500 calories, with a moderate amount of protein and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients. This is a good source of protein, making it a satisfying and healthy meal choice.
This penne pasta with ground beef recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are also delicious and healthy. Enjoy!