This beef pasta recipe in tomato sauce is a comforting, satisfying dish made with tender ground beef, savory herbs, and a rich tomato-based sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s simple, hearty, and exactly what I want on the table after a long day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, budget-friendly, and always hits the spot. The beef adds richness and protein, while the tomato sauce is perfectly seasoned with garlic, herbs, and just a touch of sweetness. It’s one of those reliable go-to meals I can make with pantry staples any night of the week.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef
olive oil
onion (chopped)
garlic (minced)
crushed or diced tomatoes (canned)
tomato paste
dried oregano
dried basil
salt and black pepper
sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
pasta (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, or any favorite)
Parmesan cheese (for topping)
fresh parsley or basil (for garnish, optional)
Directions
-
I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
-
While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add chopped onion and sauté until soft, then stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
-
I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. I drain any excess fat.
-
I stir in the tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, a pinch of sugar, and red pepper flakes if using.
-
I let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors develop.
-
I toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and mix until everything is well coated.
-
I serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and chopped herbs if I want extra flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to cook, so I usually have it ready in around 35 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. I also like adding chopped spinach or mushrooms for more veggies. For a cheesy twist, I stir in a little cream cheese or shredded mozzarella right before serving.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave. I add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen the sauce. It also freezes well—just thaw and reheat when ready.
FAQs
What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
I usually use short pasta like penne or rigatoni, but spaghetti or fusilli also work great. I just pick one that holds the sauce well.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, but I prefer canned for convenience and consistency. If using fresh, I peel and simmer them longer to break them down.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmering uncovered helps reduce and thicken the sauce. Adding a bit more tomato paste also helps.
Can I make it spicy?
Definitely. I add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to bring up the heat.
What cheese works best on top?
Parmesan is classic, but pecorino or even shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and adds richness.
Conclusion
This beef pasta in tomato sauce is one of my favorite comfort meals—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a reliable, satisfying dish that always earns a spot on the table.
Print
Beef Pasta Recipe in Tomato Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This beef pasta in tomato sauce is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, savory herbs, and a rich tomato base tossed with tender pasta. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners using pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer sauce uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, topped with Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Stir in cream cheese or shredded mozzarella for a creamy variation.
- Use fresh tomatoes if preferred, but simmer longer for best texture.
- Leftovers reheat well with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
