I like deep tomato flavors, but what makes this dish special is how the beef blends into the sauce, and how the pasta absorbs all that richness without becoming heavy. Ground Beef Tomato Pasta is one of those recipes that feels familiar from the very first bite. It is simple, comforting, and made with ingredients that most kitchens already have. This dish combines tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and well-seasoned ground beef into a meal that feels warm and satisfying without being complicated. It is the kind of recipe you come back to again and again.

I love how this pasta fits into real life. It works on busy weekdays, quiet weekends, and even casual gatherings. It does not require fancy techniques or expensive ingredients, yet it always delivers a hearty and comforting result. Every time I make it, the kitchen fills with a comforting smell that makes everyone hungry before the dish is even finished.

I have made this recipe many times, and I use simple ingredients, good-quality canned tomatoes, and slow simmering always. I believe the sauce needs a little patience to taste its best. Even though the recipe is easy, taking time with the sauce makes it feel homemade and full of care.

You can serve Ground Beef Tomato Pasta as a complete main dish, some fresh salad on the side, also with garlic bread, toasted bread, or breadsticks. It is filling on its own, but simple sides make the meal feel more complete. A light side dish balances the richness of the sauce perfectly.

Its Perfect For:

• Busy weeknight dinners
• Family meals with kids
• Meal prepping for the week
• Casual lunches or dinners
• Comfort food cravings

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (as needed)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Wide skillet or pan for the sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Colander

How to Make Ground Beef Tomato Pasta?

Step 1

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2

Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Continue cooking for 6–8 minutes until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. If there is excess fat, carefully drain it, leaving just a little for flavor.

Step 3

Build the flavor base: Add the chopped onion to the browned beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4

Make the tomato sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well until everything is fully combined. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, paprika, black pepper, salt, and red chili flakes (if using). Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and rich in flavor.

Step 5

Adjust the consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6

Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the tomato-beef sauce. Let it cook together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors fully blend.

Step 7

Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness and flavor.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Tomato Pasta

• Choose good tomatoes
  Good-quality canned tomatoes make a big difference. They give the sauce better color and flavor.
• Brown the beef properly
  Let the beef cook until fully browned. This adds depth and prevents a bland sauce.
• Do not rush the sauce
  Simmering allows the flavors to blend naturally. A little time creates a richer taste.
• Season gradually
  Add seasoning in stages while cooking. This keeps the flavor balanced and not overpowering.
• Save pasta water
  Pasta water helps loosen the sauce. It also helps the sauce stick to the pasta better.
• Mix pasta and sauce together
  Let them cook together briefly. This helps the pasta absorb more flavor.
• Taste before serving
  Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end. Small changes make a big difference.

Optional Ingredients

• Red chili flakes
• Mushrooms
• Bell peppers
• Fresh basil
• Parmesan cheese
• A splash of cream

How to Serve Ground Beef Tomato Pasta?

I like to serve Ground Beef Tomato Pasta fresh and hot, right after it finishes cooking. I usually add freshly grated Parmesan cheese while the pasta is still warm so it melts gently into the sauce. A few fresh herbs on top make the dish look simple but inviting.

I also enjoy serving this pasta family-style. I place it in a large bowl in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves. It creates a relaxed and comforting atmosphere, especially during dinner. I often pair it with a green salad or lightly steamed vegetables to keep the meal balanced.

I sometimes serve Ground Beef Tomato Pasta for casual gatherings or weekend lunches. It works well because it can be made ahead and reheated easily. When serving guests, I like to add garlic bread or toasted bread on the side so everyone can enjoy the extra sauce. It always feels satisfying without being overwhelming.

Is Ground Beef Tomato Pasta Healthy?

Ground Beef Tomato Pasta can be a healthy meal when prepared with balance. It provides protein from the beef, energy from the pasta, and vitamins from the tomato sauce. Using lean ground beef helps keep the dish lighter without losing flavor.

You can also make it healthier by adding vegetables or choosing whole wheat pasta. Portion size is important, and when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, this dish can be nourishing and comforting at the same time.

Variations and Substitutions

• Turkey Tomato Pasta
  Replace ground beef with ground turkey. It tastes lighter but still satisfying and flavorful.
• Vegetarian Version
  Use lentils or plant-based meat. The sauce remains hearty and filling.
• Creamy Tomato Pasta
  Add cream or milk at the end. This creates a smooth and comforting sauce.
• Spicy Beef Pasta
  Add chili flakes or hot sauce. It adds heat without overpowering the tomatoes.
• Baked Pasta Style
  Top with cheese and bake until bubbly. It becomes extra comforting.
• Gluten-Free Option
  Use gluten-free pasta. The sauce works well with any pasta type.
• Extra Vegetable Pasta
  Add zucchini, carrots, or spinach. This boosts nutrition and color.
• Herb-Focused Version
  Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano. The flavor becomes brighter and fresher.

How to Store, How to Reheat

Store leftover Ground Beef Tomato Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the pasta is fully cooled before storing to keep the texture right.

To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or sauce to prevent dryness. Stir well so it heats evenly and stays moist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Tomato Pasta

Can I prepare Ground Beef Tomato Pasta in advance?
Yes, it is perfect for making ahead. The flavors develop even more after resting. Store it properly and reheat gently.

What type of ground beef is best?
Lean ground beef works best. It gives flavor without making the sauce greasy.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini work very well. They add nutrition and texture.

How do I keep leftovers from drying out?
Add a little water or sauce when reheating. Stir gently to keep it moist.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is mild and comforting. Just skip spicy ingredients for children.

Ground Beef Tomato Pasta Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main CourseCuisine: Italian-AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Ground Beef Tomato Pasta is an easy, comforting recipe made with tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and flavorful ground beef. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and simple home cooking.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 3/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

• 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (as needed)

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions

• Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
• Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Continue cooking for 6–8 minutes until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. If there is excess fat, carefully drain it, leaving just a little for flavor.
• Build the flavor base: Add the chopped onion to the browned beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
• Make the tomato sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well until everything is fully combined. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, paprika, black pepper, salt, and red chili flakes (if using). Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and rich in flavor.
• Adjust the consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the tomato-beef sauce. Let it cook together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors fully blend.
• Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness and flavor.