Dinner Recipes Beef Pasta is a classic and comforting dish that combines the rich flavor of beef with the al dente texture of pasta. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. With its hearty portion size and finger-licking goodness, it's a dish that's sure to become a family favorite. By following this simple recipe, you'll be able to create a mouthwatering Beef Pasta dinner that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
* 8 oz. pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle)
* 1 lb. ground beef
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 cup red wine (optional)
* 1 tbsp tomato paste
* 1 tsp dried oregano
* 1 tsp dried basil
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
Cooking Steps:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
8. Serve the Beef Pasta hot, garnished with additional parsley and basil if desired.
Tips and Variations:
* For a creamier sauce, add 1-2 tbsp of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of the simmering time.
* To add some spice, add 1-2 tsp of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
* For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or eggplant.
* To make a white wine version, substitute the red wine with an equal amount of white wine.
* Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or cumin, to give the dish a unique flavor profile.
* Serve with grilled vegetables, roasted broccoli, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.