It is 6pm and your family is hungry. You need a dinner that is fast and filling. This ground beef pasta is your new best friend. It delivers big flavor with very little effort. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl. You can have it on the table in 30 minutes.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a true weeknight hero for any home cook. It uses simple ingredients you likely have right now. Your kids will love the savory sauce and tender noodles. It is budget-friendly and feeds a crowd easily. You only need one large skillet and a pot. Cleanup is a total breeze for busy parents. This is comfort food at its very best.
You do not need fancy skills to make this meal. It relies on pantry staples like dried oregano and marinara. The ground beef adds a protein punch that keeps everyone full. It is a great way to use up an onion. You can customize it based on what you have. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every single time.
Simple Method
You start by boiling your favorite pasta in salted water. While that cooks, you brown the beef and onions. The sauce simmers while the pasta finishes up. Everything gets tossed together in one large skillet. It is a simple method that never fails. Even a total beginner can master this dish. You will feel like a pro in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are mostly pantry staples that work hard for you.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook until beef is browned and onions are translucent. This takes 7 to 10 minutes.
- Drain the rendered fat from the skillet carefully.
- Add the minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the beef. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly into the skillet.
- Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta and serve topped with parmesan.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this ground beef pasta warm in deep bowls. It looks beautiful with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Add a side of crispy garlic bread for dipping. A simple green salad balances the meal perfectly. It is the ultimate comfort food for a cozy night. Set the table and enjoy a stress-free meal.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to four days. This meal actually tastes better the next day. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of water. This keeps the sauce creamy and delicious. You can also freeze it for a quick future lunch. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before heating.
Tips for Best Results
- Salt your pasta water like the sea for flavor.
- Use lean ground beef to save time on draining fat.
- Do not skip browning the onions until they are soft.
- Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce if needed.
- Grate your own cheese for a much better melt.
- Use a large enough skillet for easy tossing and mixing.
- Prep your garlic before you start the cooking process.
- For a holiday twist, add a pinch of nutmeg.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add a handful of fresh spinach at the very end.
- Use ground turkey for a slightly lighter family meal.
- Add red pepper flakes for a nice spicy kick.
- Try whole wheat pasta for a boost of extra fiber.
- Stir in some heavy cream for a richer, pink sauce.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you certainly can. This dish stores very well in the fridge. The flavors actually meld together overnight. It is perfect for meal prep Sundays. Just reheat it gently when you are ready to eat.
What is the best pasta shape to use?
I love using penne or rotini for this recipe. These shapes have ridges that hold the sauce well. You get a bit of beef in every bite. Any short pasta will work just fine here. Use what you have in your pantry today.
How do I know the beef is done?
The beef should no longer be pink at all. It will be a nice, rich brown color. Cooking it with onions adds so much great flavor. Make sure to break it into small crumbles. This ensures it mixes perfectly with your pasta.
I hope this easy pasta dish brings a little peace to your busy weeknight. It is a staple in my home, and I know your family will love it too. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon sal t
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook until beef is browned and onions are translucent, approximately 7 to 10 minutes.
- Drain the rendered fat from the skillet.
- Add the minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and reduce heat to low, simmering for 5 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the beef and sauce.
- Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta and serve topped with parmesan cheese.
