Pasta with Ground Meat is a comforting and hearty dish that combines al dente pasta with savory, seasoned ground meat in a vibrant sauce. This recipe is a quick and easy solution for busy weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is bound to become a family favorite, pleasing both adults and kids alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. Growing up, my grandmother would make a similar dish every Sunday, filling the house with warm aromas and eager anticipation. It was a bonding experience for my family, gathering around the table to share stories, laughter, and delicious food. This recipe brings that same sense of love and togetherness to your home, making it a go-to recipe for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for personal touches that make it uniquely yours.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose Your Meat Wisely: Opt for ground beef for a hearty flavor or ground turkey for a leaner option. Mixing different meats, like pork or chicken, can add complexity to the dish.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip on the aromatics! Sautéing garlic and onions before adding your meat enhances the overall flavor.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook your pasta just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce. This avoids mushy pasta.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving elevates the dish and adds a burst of freshness.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep this dish in several ways to save time during busy days:
- Meat Sauce: Cook the ground meat and sauce in advance. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
- Pasta: If you prefer, cook the pasta ahead of time, but toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Cooked pasta can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
- Vegetable Prep: Chop vegetables ahead of time and store them in an airtight container to streamline the cooking process.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground meat for lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious meatless meal.
- Sauce Swap: Use a marinara or Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add heat with red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Baked Version: Layer the finished pasta with cheese and bake it for a delightful pasta bake.
How to Serve
Serve the pasta in generous bowls, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the dish. For a rustic touch, serve the pasta directly from a large skillet or pot, inviting everyone to help themselves.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, which complements the savory flavors. For non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon is delightful. Finish the meal off with a light dessert, like panna cotta or a fruit sorbet, to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking the meat and sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is inherently nut-free, but always check labels for any cross-contamination if you use store-bought sauces.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, consider adding fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of color and freshness. In fall, incorporate roasted butternut squash or mushrooms for a hearty, earthy flavor. During summer, fresh tomatoes and basil can enhance the dish beautifully, making it bright and aromatic.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen ground meat? Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
- How long should I cook the ground meat? Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Can I substitute the pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape works, but keep in mind cooking times may vary.
How To Make Pasta with Ground Meat Recipe
Pasta with Ground Meat Recipe
Pasta with Ground Meat is a comforting and hearty dish that combines al dente pasta with savory, seasoned ground meat in a vibrant sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or your choice)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), broth, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to combine thoroughly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 648Total Fat 34gSaturated Fat 12gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 151mgSodium 399mgCarbohydrates 32gFiber 3gSugar 3gProtein 52g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making pasta with ground meat is not just a cooking task; it’s a delightful experience that connects you to family traditions and the joy of sharing meals. With this recipe, you’ll create a dish that’s not only full of flavor but also full of love. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen, as it has in mine. Happy cooking!
