Description
Farfalle Pasta with Ground Beef and Marinara Sauce
Ingredients:
For the pasta:
1 lb farfalle pasta (or your preferred pasta)
Salt for the pasta water
For the ground beef sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp basil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Prepare the ground beef sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Make the marinara sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and the flavors meld together.
Combine pasta and sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Top with cheese:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Let it melt for a couple of minutes while stirring gently.
Serve and enjoy:
Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy this delicious, comforting meal!
This hearty pasta dish with a rich beefy marinara sauce and melted cheese is perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, ensure all your ingredients are prepped (onion chopped, garlic minced). Begin by boiling your pasta water—salting it generously is key. While the pasta cooks, start the sauce. Browning the ground beef properly is crucial; cook until no pink remains and it has a nice sear. When simmering the marinara, a low bubble allows the flavors to deepen without burning. Combine the pasta and sauce off the heat initially to prevent overcooking, adding pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce. Finally, add the cheeses and let residual heat melt them for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. For a lighter touch, add a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. To make it a festive spread, pair with a simple antipasto platter.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook farfalle pasta al dente, reserving some pasta water. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic, then brown ground beef. Add tomato products and seasonings, simmering to thicken. Combine the drained pasta with the sauce, using pasta water to adjust consistency. Finish by stirring in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. This sauce works well with most short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or shells.
How can I make this dish leaner? Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, or use a lean (90/10) ground beef blend.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, the sauce can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, which often improves the flavor.
My sauce is too acidic. How can I fix it? A pinch of sugar or a grated carrot added during simmering can balance acidity. Ensure you are using quality canned tomatoes.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook only until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is essential for helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Not Browning the Beef Properly: Avoid steaming the meat; cook in a hot pan until well-browned for maximum flavor.
- Adding Cheese Over High Heat: Adding cheese to a boiling sauce can cause it to clump. Remove from heat and let it melt gently.
Conclusion
This Farfalle with Ground Beef and Marinara is a classic, satisfying dish that is endlessly customizable. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s a reliable recipe that promises a delicious, comforting dinner any night of the week. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!