Ground Beef Pasta

Looking for a quick and easy dinner idea? This Ground Beef Pasta recipe is the perfect solution! Made with savory ground beef, tender Rotini pasta, and a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce, it’s a family favorite that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or craving comfort food, this budget-friendly dish has all the right flavors. Serve it with garlic bread for an irresistible meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, this hearty pasta recipe is sure to become a regular on your dinner table!

Ingredients

Meat & Vegetables

• 1 ½ lbs. ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings & Sauce

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 Tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth

Creamy & Cheesy Additions

• ½ cup half and half (half cream, half milk)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Pasta

• ½ pound Rotini pasta

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Instructions

1. Prep Ingredients:
   Shred the cheese and set it aside with the half and half. Let these sit at room temperature; adding them cold can affect the sauce’s texture.
2. Cook the Beef & Onions:
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, crumbling it as it cooks. Add the diced onions halfway through and cook until softened.
3. Add Garlic & Thicken:
   Drain any excess grease. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the salt, Worcestershire sauce, and flour. Cook for 3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Build the Sauce:
   Add the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan using a silicone spatula. Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes.
5. Cook the Pasta:
   While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the Rotini pasta according to package instructions, about 7 minutes, and drain.
6. Finish the Sauce:
   Gradually stir the half and half into the sauce, reducing the heat to low. Slowly sprinkle in the shredded cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
7. Combine & Serve:
   Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Serve immediately with garlic bread and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in about 30 minutes.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with comforting flavors everyone will enjoy.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• One-Pan Sauce: Fewer dishes, more flavor!

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Tips

• Use Fresh Cheese: Shredding your own cheese ensures it melts smoothly, unlike pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer develops deeper flavors.
• Reserve Pasta Water: If the sauce gets too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
• Pasta Options: Substitute Rotini with Penne, Fusilli, or your favorite pasta.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend for different flavors.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and pasta separately. Combine and reheat before serving for best results.

Can I freeze this dish?
The sauce freezes well, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh to avoid it becoming mushy.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch instead of flour.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• For leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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Enjoy this rich and satisfying Ground Beef Pasta dish as a go-to recipe for any occasion!