When you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick to prepare, this Irresistible Pasta with Minced Beef is the perfect choice. Combining the richness of minced beef with fresh vegetables and a creamy tomato sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Simple yet incredibly flavorful, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb minced beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 paprika (bell pepper), diced
- 0.5 lb cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups tomato pulp
- 0.75 cups heavy cream
- Salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Pasta:
- 0.5 lb pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, etc.)
- For Garnishing:
- Parsley, chopped (optional)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Drop the pasta into the boiling water and cook it according to the instructions on the package, aiming for an al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced paprika, cooking for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add the minced beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Sauté until the beef is fully browned and cooked, which should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste.
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, releasing their juices.
- Pour in the tomato pulp and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Make the Sauce Creamy:
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well to create a rich, creamy sauce.
- If the sauce appears too dense, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the meat sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Allow the pasta to simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, absorbing the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Conclusion:
This Irresistible Pasta with Minced Beef is a surefire way to satisfy your hunger with minimal effort. The combination of savory minced beef, creamy tomato sauce, and tender pasta creates a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors in every bite!