Delicious Meat Sauce Pasta: A Quick and Flavorful Recipe for Busy Days

Pasta with meat sauce is a timeless dish that’s beloved by many for its rich flavor and comforting nature. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family or looking to impress guests, this dish is a perfect choice. While making meat sauce from scratch can take time, you can still create a delicious pasta with meat sauce by using a few simple ingredients. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a quick, flavorful meat sauce pasta using easy-to-find ingredients, and we’ll share tips for making it even more special.

Ingredients for Meat Sauce Pasta

• 1 pound (450g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite type)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) tomato sauce or marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for extra thickness)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Meat Sauce Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of the pasta water to use in the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes.

Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onions are softened and fragrant.

Next, add the tomato sauce or marinara sauce to the skillet along with the tomato paste (if using). Stir to combine. Season with dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the pasta is ready and the sauce has simmered, add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss the pasta and sauce together, ensuring the noodles are fully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more pasta water to help coat the noodles and reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

To serve, divide the meat sauce pasta among plates. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your hearty, comforting meal!