Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Ease of Cooking with Ground Beef


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: James Carter
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A simple and satisfying one-pan ground beef and pasta dish perfect for busy weeknights. Learn how easy it is to prepare a comforting meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or small shells), uncooked
  • Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. 1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off excess grease.
  2. 2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. 3. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth or water. Bring to a simmer.
  4. 4. Stir in the uncooked pasta shapes, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
  5. 5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
  6. 6. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Add more liquid if sauce is too thick.

Notes

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of liquid or in the microwave.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: Approx. 450-550 (varies with lean percentage and serving size)
  • Sugar: Approx. 5-8g
  • Sodium: Approx. 800-1200mg (varies with broth and added salt)
  • Fat: Approx. 15-25g
  • Carbohydrates: Approx. 40-50g
  • Fiber: Approx. 3-5g
  • Protein: Approx. 30-35g