If there ever was a dinner that spells comfort and convenience in one bowl, it’s this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce. Featuring hearty ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a rich, tangy tomato sauce that clings to every piece of pasta, this isn’t just any weeknight meal—it’s a family favorite that feels both classic and effortless. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something satisfying, Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce brings simple ingredients together for unforgettable Italian-American flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is all in the balance—each ingredient is essential, lending character, richness, or a pop of color. Gather these kitchen staples and you’ll have everything you need for a plateful of pure joy.
- Olive Oil: Adds a smooth base for sautéing, infusing warmth and depth into the sauce.
- Ground Beef: The star protein gives hearty, savory flavors that anchor the dish.
- Yellow Onion: Diced small, it melts into the sauce and brings a gentle sweetness.
- Garlic: Just three cloves transform the aroma, infusing every bite with rich goodness.
- Tomato Pasta Sauce or Marinara: The backbone of the sauce—use your favorite jar for customized flavor.
- Diced Tomatoes (Undrained): Adds juicy texture and bright acidity, creating a fresh dimension.
- Dried Italian Seasoning: Delivers classic herby notes; use homemade or a store-bought blend.
- Salt: Just enough to make the natural flavors sing.
- Black Pepper: Brings subtle, earthy heat to the sauce.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who like a hint of heat, this is your friend.
- Pasta (Penne, Rigatoni, or Your Choice): Choose your favorite shape—short pasta works best for catching sauce.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty-umami sparkle when stirred in and sprinkled on top.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: A finishing touch of color and freshness that lifts each serving.
How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and toss in your choice of pasta. Cook it until just al dente—it should still have a little bite, as it’ll finish in the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a big skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking the meat into crumbles as it cooks. This step is all about coaxing out those savory, toasty flavors and getting the onion perfectly soft and golden—about 6 to 7 minutes should do it. Drain off any excess fat for a lighter, more balanced sauce.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly—this step creates the aromatic foundation for your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce.
Step 4: Stir in the Tomato Sauce Base
Pour in the tomato pasta sauce and the can of undrained diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a gentle kick. If you’re feeling fancy, now’s your chance to deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine for extra depth. Lower the heat and let everything simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring now and then as the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Serve
Add the cooked pasta straight into the simmering sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece. If it feels too thick, a splash of that reserved pasta water can help—just enough to create that perfect, glossy finish. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and toss well, then shower with chopped basil or parsley. Your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is ready to eat!
How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a big handful of freshly grated Parmesan and a scatter of vibrant basil or parsley. These simple toppers not only make your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce look restaurant-worthy, but they brighten up every forkful with fresh flavor and eye-catching color.
Side Dishes
Bread is always a winner—think chewy garlic bread or a soft focaccia to mop up that extra sauce. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, and roasted or steamed veggies like zucchini or broccoli make it a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Dress up your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce by serving it family-style in a big bowl at the center of the table, or go for playful individual ramekins topped with a little extra cheese and broiled until bubbly. For parties, try spooning portions into little appetizer cups for an elegant, fork-friendly treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your pasta cool, then pack it up in an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce keeps well for up to three days, and honestly, the flavors just get better with a little time to mingle.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch ahead or save some for a busy weeknight, freeze leftovers in portions. Let everything cool, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It’ll keep beautifully for up to two months—just label and date for easy planning.
Reheating
To bring back all the flavor and texture, reheat your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or extra sauce if needed so it doesn’t dry out, and always stir halfway through for even heating. Top with a fresh pinch of herbs and cheese if you like.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground beef substitute can all create a delicious spin on Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce—just adjust your seasonings as needed.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work beautifully because they hold onto the rich sauce. But honestly, whatever pasta you have on hand can join the party.
How can I boost the nutrition?
Add chopped spinach or mushrooms when you’re simmering the sauce. These veggies blend right in, upping the color, nutrients, and earthy flavor without extra fuss.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Just skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The tomato sauce is naturally dairy-free, so it’s easy to adjust for different dietary needs while keeping the dish hearty and full of flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
Only if you want it to be! The red pepper flakes are totally optional—add more, less, or none at all to suit everyone at the table. The base is classic and kid-friendly as written.
Final Thoughts
This Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce is one of those rare gems—a meal that’s both stress-free to cook and a total hit at the table. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with flavors everyone loves. Give it a try the next time you want to serve pure comfort in a bowl—I think you’ll agree, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation!
Print
Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender pasta is tossed in a rich tomato sauce with seasoned ground beef, creating a delicious meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Beef Pasta:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (24-ounce) jar tomato pasta sauce or marinara
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet, brown ground beef and onion, then add garlic. Stir in pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, mix well. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and herbs before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding the tomato sauce.
- You can also add chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *