Are you tired of the same old boring weeknight dinners that leave everyone uninspired? Get ready to revolutionize your meal routine with this incredibly easy and mouthwatering ground beef pasta dish that comes together in less than 45 minutes! Imagine a comforting, flavor-packed meal that'll have your family rushing to the dinner table, with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. This isn't just another recipe – it's your new weeknight dinner superhero!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spatula, cooking until the meat is evenly browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- While the beef is cooking, drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving a small amount for flavor. Add chopped onions and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic, which can create a bitter taste.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- In a separate pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the beef and tomato mixture. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
- Allow the dish to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Tips
- Brown the Beef Like a Pro: Ensure your ground beef gets a perfect golden-brown sear by avoiding overcrowding the pan. This creates delicious caramelization and extra flavor.
- Garlic Hack: Add minced garlic at the right moment to prevent burning. Those last 30-45 seconds are crucial for releasing maximum flavor without bitterness.
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook pasta in well-salted water and aim for that perfect al dente texture. Test a piece a minute before the package instructions suggest.
- Flavor Boosters: Customize your dish by adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for brightness.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! It reheats beautifully and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Budget-Friendly Tip: This recipe uses affordable ingredients but delivers restaurant-quality taste. Perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 80mg
