Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

I whipped up this beef pasta in tomato sauce one evening when I came home late and all I craved was something warm savory and quick so I reached for the basics I always keep on hand – ground beef pasta and a can of tomatoes. What started as a spontaneous dinner turned into a go-to comfort dish that’s rich flavorful and surprisingly simple.

Now it’s one of those meals I love making on a weeknight because it comes together fast but still feels like something special and I always garnish it with fresh basil and a little grated cheese because that final touch makes it feel like a restaurant dish right at home.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground beef – Adds hearty protein and depth to the sauce.
• Pasta – I love using wide noodles like pappardelle, but any pasta will do.
• Onion – Brings sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
• Garlic – Infuses the dish with savory aroma and flavor.
• Canned tomatoes – The base of the sauce, rich and slightly tangy.
• Tomato paste – Adds a deep, concentrated tomato flavor.
• Olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
• Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings out the classic Italian flavor.
• Salt – Enhances all the other ingredients.
• Black pepper – Gives a little warm kick.
• Fresh basil – A bright finishing touch.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor on top.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
• Large skillet or saucepan – To prepare the beef and sauce.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring the sauce without damaging your pan.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping onion, garlic, and herbs.
• Colander – To drain the pasta when cooked.
• Grater – For fresh Parmesan cheese.
• Tongs or pasta fork – To serve the pasta easily.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the pasta according to package instructions. I drain it and set it aside.

Step 2:

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat. I add the diced onions and sauté until they’re soft and translucent, then I stir in the minced garlic for about a minute.

Step 3:

Next, I add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and crumbled. I season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4:

Once the beef is cooked through, I stir in the tomato paste and cook it for about 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 5:

Then I pour in the canned tomatoes, stir well, and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15–20 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld.

Step 6:

I add the cooked pasta directly to the sauce and toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated.

Step 7:

Just before serving, I sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with torn basil leaves.

Tips

I like to use pappardelle or tagliatelle for a heartier feel, but penne or spaghetti works great too.

If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering.

A splash of red wine adds depth and richness to the tomato sauce.

You can double the sauce and freeze half for an even quicker dinner next time.

Ways to Serve

I often serve this pasta with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon juice and olive oil.

Garlic bread on the side makes it feel like a full Italian meal.

A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with the beefy tomato flavors.

Leftovers make an amazing lunch the next day – just reheat and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat in beef pasta in tomato sauce?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives all work well.

Can I make beef pasta in tomato sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The sauce tastes even better the next day. Just cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

Can I freeze beef pasta in tomato sauce?

Yes. Freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for best texture when reheated.

What pasta works best for beef pasta in tomato sauce?

I prefer wide noodles like pappardelle, but spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne all pair well with this sauce.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this beef pasta in tomato sauce a try! It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying recipe that never fails to hit the spot. Let me know how it turns out or share your own twist on it — I’d love to hear from you!

Happy Cooking!

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