Ground Beef Pasta
Ground Beef Pasta is a hearty and delicious dish featuring pasta mixed with a rich cream sauce, ground beef, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (your choice of type) Opt for shapes that hold sauce well, such as penne or fusilli.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the onions.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped Add flavor to the sauce.
- 1 pound lean ground beef Using lean beef reduces excess grease.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor in the sauce.
- 1 14 ounce can diced tomatoes with juices Provides a rich base for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste For thickness and deeper flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard Adds a subtle tang.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning For a herbal touch.
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
- Salt and pepper to taste To season the dish.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional) For serving and garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil a large pot of salted water for the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until translucent.
- Incorporate the lean ground beef and break it up as it cooks for about 5-8 minutes till browned.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another 3 minutes.
- Spoon out any excess fat if necessary.
Cooking the Sauce
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer for about 4-5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Gently pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated.
- Serve hot from the skillet with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Customize the recipe by adding vegetables or experimenting with different spices.