Description
Who said you need a stovetop to enjoy a delicious plate of pasta? With this Quick and Easy Microwave Pasta, you can prepare a hearty meal in no time. Featuring a rich, savory beef sauce with fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this recipe is perfect for busy nights, lazy weekends, or even quick meal prep. Enjoy a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s ready in minutes!
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti Sauce:
- 800g canned whole tomatoes
- 300g minced beef
- 100g onion, chopped
- 80g bell pepper, diced
- 40g unsalted butter
- 30g garlic, minced
- 35g celery, chopped
- 70g ketchup
- 10g sugar
- 2 tsp oregano
- 5g salt
- Pepper, to taste
- 70g water
For the Spaghetti Noodles:
- 300g spaghetti noodles
- A pinch of salt
- Olive oil for tossing
Instructions
1. Prepare the Spaghetti Sauce
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Cook the Vegetables and Beef:
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Add the butter and microwave on high for 2 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced beef, breaking it apart with a fork or spoon. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked.
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Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Slightly drain the canned whole tomatoes and add them to the bowl. Use a spoon to crush the tomatoes.
- Stir in ketchup, sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and water. Mix well.
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Cook the Sauce:
- Microwave the sauce on high for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- The sauce should thicken, and the flavors should meld together. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
2. Cook the Spaghetti Noodles
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Prepare the Noodles:
- Break the spaghetti in half and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Submerge the noodles in water and add a pinch of salt.
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Cook the Pasta:
- Microwave on high for 4-6 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check for doneness after 4 minutes to ensure the noodles are al dente.
- Drain the noodles carefully and toss them with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Combine and Serve
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Mix the Sauce and Pasta:
- Pour the prepared spaghetti sauce over the cooked noodles. Gently toss to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
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Serve:
- Divide the pasta into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Notes
- If you’re making this for meal prep, store the sauce and pasta separately to avoid soggy noodles.
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer sauce flavor.
- Adjust the spices and seasoning to suit your taste.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired