Looking for a meal that’s as quick as it is tasty? Easy Ground Beef Pasta is the perfect solution. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a satisfying, hearty dish that the whole family will love. This recipe is ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious and comforting, but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Packed with flavorful ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a savory sauce, this dish comes together in 30 minutes or less. It’s one of those recipes that will quickly become a family favorite — simple, speedy, and surprisingly delicious.
Why You’ll Love Easy Ground Beef Pasta
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Quick and simple: Ready in 30 minutes with just a few basic ingredients.
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Versatile: You can use any type of pasta and customize the seasonings or add-ins.
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One-pot meal: Fewer dishes to clean up, making this ideal for busy days.
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Budget-friendly: Ground beef is an affordable protein option, and this recipe uses pantry staples.
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Kid-approved: With the rich flavor of beef and pasta, this meal is sure to please even picky eaters.
Essential Ingredients for Easy Ground Beef Pasta
To make this delicious and easy recipe, you’ll need:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 package (16 oz) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni work great)
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup beef broth (or water)
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1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
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Red pepper flakes for a little heat
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Chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies
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Fresh basil for a burst of freshness
How to Make Easy Ground Beef Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Be sure to reserve a little pasta water in case you need it later to adjust the sauce consistency.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5–7 minutes, until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), and add the beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix until well coated with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the ground beef pasta in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy the satisfying, savory flavors of this simple yet delicious meal!
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Pasta
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Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your preferences. Add extra Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes for more flavor.
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Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef (90% or 93% lean) will help reduce excess grease and make the dish a bit healthier.
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Customize with veggies: Add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to sneak in more nutrition and flavor.
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Use a variety of pasta: While classic pasta like penne or spaghetti works well, you can use any shape you like — fusilli, rigatoni, or shells are all great options.
How to Store Leftovers
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Refrigeration: Store any leftover ground beef pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the pasta or heat it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Creative Variations on Ground Beef Pasta
While the basic version of this recipe is already delicious, here are some ideas to mix things up:
1. Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake
Turn this easy ground beef pasta into a baked casserole. After combining the pasta and sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Ground Beef and Veggie Pasta
Add a variety of vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Sauté them with the onions before adding the beef.
3. Spicy Ground Beef Pasta
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a small can of green chilies to the sauce. The heat will complement the savory beef and pasta beautifully.
4. Ground Beef and Creamy Pasta
For a creamy version, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce before adding the pasta. This will give the dish a rich, velvety texture.
Final Thoughts: Simple, Speedy, and Totally Delicious
Easy Ground Beef Pasta is one of those meals that everyone will love — it’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, hosting a casual dinner, or just craving something comforting, this recipe is sure to please. The combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a delicious tomato-based sauce creates the perfect balance of flavors that will have you coming back for more.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can make a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy. Give it a try today and experience how simple, speedy, and surprisingly delicious ground beef pasta can be!
