(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Pasta (penne, rotini, fusilli, or your favorite)
Onion
Garlic
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Tomato paste (optional, for richness)
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Grated cheese (Parmesan or mozzarella, optional)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in tomato paste (if using), crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine.
Optional: Sprinkle with grated cheese and let it melt over the heat.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Servings and timing
This ground beef pasta recipe yields about 4–6 servings. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Cheesy Baked Pasta: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Creamy Tomato: Stir in a splash of cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Different Meats: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Pasta Alternatives: Try whole wheat, gluten-free, or legume-based pasta.
Herb Boost: Add fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for enhanced flavor.
One-Pot Version: Cook pasta directly in the sauce with added broth or water.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. To freeze, cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
What pasta works best for ground beef pasta?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, rigatoni, or shells work well because they hold onto the sauce.
Can I use store-bought pasta sauce?
Yes, you can use your favorite jarred pasta sauce for convenience. Just adjust seasoning to taste.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta al dente and don’t overcook it when combining with the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prep.
What kind of ground beef should I use?
Use 85/15 or 90/10 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and minimal grease.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Replace the beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils.
Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Yes, stir in shredded cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. Cool fully before freezing and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What sides go well with ground beef pasta?
Serve with garlic bread, salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or spicy sausage to bring the heat.
Conclusion
Ground beef pasta is the ultimate comfort meal—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and loved by all ages. Whether you keep it classic or jazz it up with cheese and spice, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a staple recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Ground beef pasta is a hearty and flavorful meal made with seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in tomato paste (if using), crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until fully combined and heated through.
Optional: Sprinkle with grated cheese and cover for a minute to let it melt.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
Use 85/15 or 90/10 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and minimal grease.Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.For a cheesy baked version, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.To make it spicy, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from getting mushy when combined with the sauce.
