Tomato Pasta and Hearty Beef

Components:

1. 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli, for example)
2. One pound of ground beef
3. One medium onion, chopped
4. Two minced garlic cloves
5. One 14-oz can of chopped tomatoes
6. One 8-ounce can of tomato sauce
7. Two tablespoons of tomato paste
8. One teaspoon of dried oregano
9. One teaspoon of dried basil
10. Half a teaspoon of optional red pepper flakes
11. To taste, add salt and pepper.
12. Two tablespoons of olive oil
13. 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated (to serve)
14. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Directions:

• Prepare the pasta by boiling salted water in a big saucepan. After adding the pasta, cook it as directed on the package until it’s al dente. After draining, set away.
• To brown the beef, heat the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Cook for approximately five minutes after adding the chopped onion until it becomes tender. Cook for a minute more after adding the minced garlic.
• Add the Beef: Put the ground beef on top of the medium-high heat. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until browned and crumbly using a spoon. If needed, drain extra fat.
• Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add the tomato paste, tomato sauce, and chopped tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper and add the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook, stirring regularly, for ten to fifteen minutes.
• Mix: Make sure the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce by adding the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and tossing. To fully heat, cook for a further two to three minutes.
• To serve, distribute the pasta on individual dishes. If preferred, sprinkle fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Have fun!

It is easy to duplicate this filling recipe for leftovers and is perfect for a weekday dinner. For extra taste, you may also add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms!