Looking for a quick and flavorful pasta dish? Try an easy pasta meat sauce recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. Pasta is a versatile and approachable canvas for a flavorful sauce, making it a great option for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Whether you’re new to cooking or looking for a hassle-free family dinner, this easy pasta meat sauce recipe is the perfect solution. So gather your ingredients, get ready to stir, and savor the delicious results!
The secret to a great pasta meat sauce lies in the balance of flavors. The combination of savory ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a rich and satisfying sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, this recipe is easily customizable, making it a great way to use your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound pasta, cooked and drained
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
- Pot (for cooking the pasta)
How To Make An Easy Pasta Meat Sauce
1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat the skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, crumbling it as you cook. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer and Thicken the Sauce: Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the meat sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips and Possible Variations
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of water.
- Add some chopped vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Possible Variations:
- Turkey Meat Sauce: Swap ground beef for ground turkey.
- Vegetarian Meat Sauce: Use crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat.
- Creamy Meat Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the sauce.
No matter how you choose to customize it, an easy pasta meat sauce recipe is a quick and satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table. So next time you need a simple yet delicious dinner idea, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
With its rich flavors and endless possibilities, an easy pasta meat sauce recipe is a true culinary gem. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your kitchen adventures, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.