When you’re craving something cozy, filling, and irresistibly flavorful, Beef and Tomato Penne Pasta is the perfect answer. This easy-to-make dish brings together tender ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta to create a family favorite that never disappoints.
Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal, this Beef and Tomato Penne Pasta recipe is your go-to solution for hearty satisfaction.
Ingredients for Beef and Tomato Penne Pasta
To prepare this savory pasta dish, gather the following fresh and pantry ingredients:
pasta:
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12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
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Salt (for pasta water)
sauce:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
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1/2 cup beef broth or water
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1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
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Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Large pot (for boiling pasta)
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Colander
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Large skillet or sauté pan
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Chef’s knife
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Cutting board
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Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
4: Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste
Stir in oregano, basil, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Then mix in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1–2 minutes to develop a richer flavor.
5: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the beef and tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley or fresh basil over the pasta. For an added touch, serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips for Perfect Beef and Tomato Penne Pasta
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Use lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease and ensure a balanced flavor.
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Don’t skip the tomato paste—it adds depth and a concentrated tomato flavor.
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Add vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a more wholesome meal.
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Use whole wheat penne for a fiber-rich alternative.
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Reserve pasta water—a little goes a long way to make your sauce silky and cling better to the pasta.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving – Serves 4)
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Calories: 580
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 62g
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Fat: 24g
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Fiber: 5g
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Sugars: 7g
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Sodium: 720mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Beef and Tomato Penne Pasta is more than just a comforting meal—it’s a dependable dinner option packed with protein, bold Italian-inspired flavor, and family-friendly appeal. It stores well for leftovers, reheats beautifully, and pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty garlic bread.
Final Thoughts: Try This Beef and Tomato Penne Pasta Tonight
If you’re looking for a reliable, hearty dinner that delivers comfort and taste in every bite, Beef and Tomato Penne Pasta is your ideal choice. It’s simple to make, loaded with rich flavors, and endlessly customizable.
Don’t wait for a special occasion—bring this delicious dish to your kitchen tonight and enjoy a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. For more hearty pasta recipes like this one, be sure to bookmark our blog and follow us for weekly updates!
