If you’re a fan of hearty comfort food that comes together in under an hour yet feels oh-so-special, let Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce steal a spot on your weekly dinner rotation. Featuring perfectly cooked pasta nestled in a rich, savory tomato sauce packed with ground beef, herbs, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, this crowd-pleaser is as satisfying as it is simple. With classic flavors made even better when served piping hot with a little fresh basil, it’s the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again—whether it’s a cozy date night or a big family dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce lies in its simple, honest ingredients—each one bringing something essential to the table. From pasta that delivers perfect bite to the fragrant dried herbs and robust tomato base, everything here plays a starring role in creating a dish that’s both familiar and unforgettable.

Pasta (12 ounces, like penne or rigatoni): Choose your favorite shape; tubes or ridges grab all that luscious sauce beautifully.
Ground beef (1 pound): Delivers hearty flavor and turns this into a stick-to-your-ribs main course.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the onion and garlic really bloom as they cook.
Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Builds the savory base and gives a subtle sweetness.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Lifts the sauce with a fragrant, unmistakable aroma.
Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces): Forms the backbone of the sauce, providing bold tomato flavor and a perfect consistency.
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the depth and lets the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Invites a signature Italian flair that melds effortlessly with tomato.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle sweetness and herbal freshness.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Offers a little gentle heat for those who like a kick.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the sauce.
Beef broth (1/2 cup): Deepens the flavor and adds a luxurious, savory finish.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce and finishes each bite with a salty, nutty edge.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
Fresh basil (for garnish, optional): Makes your finished bowl pop with color and freshness.

How to Make Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions to ensure the perfect bite. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside—this will give you time to focus on building your star sauce. It’s good to toss the pasta with a touch of olive oil if it’s sitting out for more than a few minutes, so it doesn’t stick together.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is evenly browned with no pink spots left; this unlocks all those deep, meaty flavors. If you see excess fat in the pan, quickly drain it off—the sauce will be richer without it weighing things down.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Toss the finely chopped onion and minced garlic into the pan with your browned beef. Stir frequently for three or four minutes, just until the onions go translucent and the kitchen starts smelling absolutely irresistible. This simple step infuses the whole sauce with sweet, savory undertones.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce

Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), sugar, and beef broth. Mix well so everything is beautifully combined. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away, uncovered, for 20 to 25 minutes. The sauce will gradually thicken, the flavors deepen, and the aroma will fill your home with warmth and anticipation.

Step 5: Toss Pasta and Finish

Add your drained pasta right into the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss until every last noodle is coated in that beefy, tomato-rich deliciousness. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper. Turn off the heat and stir in about half of the grated Parmesan, letting it melt in and enrich the sauce even further.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Pile the Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce onto plates or into bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of the remaining Parmesan and, if you have it, a scattering of fresh basil leaves. Serve your finished dish steaming hot, with plenty of smiles to go with it!

How to Serve Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Garnishes

A flourish of parmesan and scatterings of torn fresh basil bring your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce to life, turning a humble skillet of pasta into a dinner table centerpiece. If you’re feeling fancy, a quick drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or a dusting of cracked black pepper right before serving can make every plate look restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pair your Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce with garlic bread to soak up the last bits of sauce, or a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables also play nicely alongside, balancing the meal with extra color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For something a little different, try serving the Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce in individual ramekins topped with a layer of mozzarella, then broil until bubbly. Or swirl your pasta into elegant nests in shallow bowls, garnish liberally, and let everyone dig in family-style for that warm, communal feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for lunches or easy dinners, and the flavors deepen a little overnight, making reheated portions just as tempting.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce for future cravings! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. Store for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply transfer the pasta and sauce to a saucepan and warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or beef broth if needed to loosen. For single servings, the microwave works brilliantly—just cover and heat in bursts, stirring between rounds. A fresh sprinkle of Parmesan before serving brings it right back to its original glory.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne and rigatoni are classics for Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce, you can switch to fusilli, ziti, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have. Just make sure to cook your chosen pasta until al dente for the best texture.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground pork, Italian sausage, or even ground turkey work well in this recipe. Each brings its own spin, so feel free to try different options based on your mood or what’s already in your fridge.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Just swap in your favorite plant-based ground “meat” or lentils in place of beef and use vegetable broth. The sauce remains rich and flavorful, making a fantastic vegetarian Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can completely make the sauce in advance—just let it cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer. When you’re ready for dinner, cook fresh pasta and toss it all together for a time-saving meal.

How do I get a creamier sauce?

If you crave a creamy Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream right before tossing the pasta with the sauce. It’s an effortless way to create a silky, luxurious finish without masking the robust flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s a special kind of magic in a bowl of homemade Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce—one that brings people together and turns even everyday dinners into something memorable. Give this recipe a try and watch as it quickly disappears from everyone’s plates. I have no doubt it’ll become one of your go-to favorites!

Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and savory dish, this Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal that is easy to make. Perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends, this Italian-inspired pasta dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)

Beef Sauce:

1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup beef broth

Additional:

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Prepare Beef Sauce: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, sugar, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors develop.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until well coated.
Serve: Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.