Savory Beef and Pasta

Savory Beef and Pasta is a comforting, satisfying dish that combines tender beef strips with perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. It is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need a hearty, home-cooked meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will love this recipe for its rich, robust flavor and simple preparation. The sauce melds beautifully with the pasta, while the tender beef adds satisfying protein and texture. This dish uses familiar ingredients and can easily be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or spices. It also makes excellent leftovers, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef (sirloin, flank steak, or tenderloin), cut into thin strips
• Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or macaroni)
• Olive oil
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato paste
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef strips and sear until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly caramelized.
6. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
8. Return the beef to the skillet and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes.
9. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir to combine.
10. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone at the end.
• Veggie boost: Add sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb twist: Use fresh basil or thyme for a more aromatic finish.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Sirloin or flank steak works well because they cook quickly and stay tender.

Can I use ground beef instead?

Yes, ground beef is a great substitute and simplifies preparation.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly when combined with the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

What pasta shape works best?

Penne, rigatoni, or any pasta with ridges helps hold the sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces and broth are gluten-free.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer longer uncovered, or stir in a small cornstarch slurry if desired.

Can I add cheese directly to the sauce?

Yes, Parmesan or Pecorino can be stirred in for added richness.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Garlic bread, salad, or steamed vegetables are excellent accompaniments.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, though for best texture, freeze the beef and sauce separately from the pasta.

Conclusion

Savory Beef and Pasta is a flavorful, versatile dish that brings together simple ingredients for a truly comforting meal. Whether you serve it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the days ahead, this recipe offers rich taste and satisfying texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Savory Beef and Pasta

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Savory Beef and Pasta is a comforting, satisfying dish that combines tender beef strips with perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. This meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• Beef (sirloin, flank steak, or tenderloin), cut into thin strips
• Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or macaroni)
• Olive oil
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato paste
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef strips and sear until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly caramelized.
6. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
7. Return the beef to the skillet and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes.
8. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir to combine.
9. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone at the end.
• Veggie boost: Add sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb twist: Use fresh basil or thyme for a more aromatic finish.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 60mg