Name: Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ lb penne pasta; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 2 cups onion; 2 cloves garlic; 1 tsp Italian Seasoning; dash red pepper flakes; ½ tsp Fresh Thyme; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 lb Ground Beef; 3 fresh basil leaves; 2½ cups Chunky tomato sauce; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley

Embrace the flavors of Italy with this classic Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce recipe. This dish offers a hearty meaty sauce, with robust flavors of Italian seasoning and fresh basil leaves, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. It's a simple, satisfying, and delightful meal that can be whipped up any day of the week.

Photos of Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce Recipe

While most of the ingredients needed for this recipe are commonly found in home pantries, there are a few you might need to pick up. Fresh basil leaves are key to achieve the authentic Italian flavor. Get a good quality ground beef for the meat sauce. The Italian seasoning, a mix of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and red chili flakes, is an essential ingredient for this dish. If you don't have it on hand, you'll find it in the spice aisle of your supermarket.

Ingredients for Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce

Penne pasta: A type of pasta that is cylinder-shaped. The hollow center allows it to hold the meat sauce beautifully.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for cooking the onions and garlic. It adds a subtle flavor to the sauce.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the meat sauce.

Garlic: Gives a strong pungent flavor to the sauce.

Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that gives the dish its distinct Italian flavor.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a kick of heat to the sauce.

Fresh thyme: Adds a subtle earthy flavor to the sauce.

Ground beef: The main protein of the sauce. It's rich in flavor and becomes very tender when cooked.

Fresh basil leaves: Adds a hint of sweet and peppery flavor to the sauce. It's a key ingredient in Italian cooking.

Chunky tomato sauce: Forms the base of the meat sauce. Its tangy flavor balances the richness of the meat.

Sugar: Used to cut the acidity of the tomato sauce.

Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh and slightly peppery taste to the dish.

One reader, Jolyn Janssen says:

This penne pasta with meat sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the meat sauce is perfectly seasoned. The combination of the penne pasta and the savory sauce is simply divine. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and a go-to comfort food for me. Highly recommended!

Jolyn Janssen

Key Techniques for Making Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce

How to cook penne pasta: Boil 4 quarts of water in a large pot, add 2 tablespoons of salt, and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions.

How to make meat sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and seasonings, then brown ground beef in a hot cast-iron pan. Combine the cooked beef with the sautéed onions, add tomato sauce, basil, and sugar, then simmer for 15 minutes.

How to adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar as needed to balance the flavors.

How to combine pasta and sauce: Stir the cooked penne pasta into the meat sauce until well combined.

How to serve: Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

How To Make Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce

This easy-to-make penne pasta dish is delightfully bursting with flavor with its tasty meat sauce made with chunky tomato sauce, ground beef, and spices.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½lbpenne pasta
2tbspextra-virgin olive oil
2cupsonion,(from about 1 large onion) chopped
2clovesgarlic,chopped
1tspItalian seasoning,(blend of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, marjoram, and savory)
dashred pepper flakes
½tspfresh thyme,or a pinch of dried thyme
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1lbground beef,(16% fat)
3fresh basil leaves,chopped (or a ½ tsp of dried basil leaves)
2½cupschunky tomato sauce,(almost 1 28 oz can), such as Muir glen brand if available, canned
1tspsugar
1tbspfresh parsley,chopped

Instructions

Heat to boiling a large pot with 4-quarts of water in it.
Once the water is boiling, add 2 tablespoons of salt. Once the water returns to a boil add the pasta to the pot.
Leave uncovered, let cook on high heat with a vigorous boil.
Put the timer on for 8 to 10 minutes, or whatever the pasta package says is appropriate for al dente (cooked but still a little firm).
Drain.
Once started to heat the water, start working on the sauce.
Heat the olive oil in a very large skillet on medium heat. Add the chopped onion, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are softened.
Add the garlic, fresh thyme, season with salt and pepper.
Cook for an additional 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Heat a large cast-iron pan on high heat. Salt the bottom of the pan generously.
Once the pan is hot, break up small chunks of ground beef and add them to the pan, without stirring. (Do not crowd the pan. Work in batches if needed).
If the pan is too hot and the meat is burning, not browning, take the pan off the heat for a little, and reduce the heat to medium-high.
Once the meat is browned on 1 side after a couple of minutes, use a metal spatula to flip the meat over to brown on the other side.
At this point, assuming a cast-iron pan is used, remove the pan from the heat. The residual heat in the pan will finish cooking the meat.
Use a slotted spoon to lift the meat from the cast iron pan and add it to the pan with the seasoned onions.
Add the tomato sauce. Use the edge of your metal spatula to break up the bigger chunks of meat into smaller pieces.
Add the basil. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar.
Bring to a simmer on low heat, let cook, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
Once the sauce has simmered for 15 minutes, adjust the seasonings. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Add a little more sugar if the sauce is too acidic. Add more tomato sauce if the sauce is a little dry.
Stir in the cooked penne pasta.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

Use rice pasta for a gluten-free version.

Nutrition

Calories: 637.44kcal
Fat: 30.90g
Saturated Fat: 9.81g
Trans Fat: 1.34g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.84g
Carbohydrates: 60.53g
Fiber: 5.96g
Sugar: 11.44g
Protein: 29.87g
Cholesterol: 80.51mg
Sodium: 966.10mg
Calcium: 87.66mg
Potassium: 1035.86mg
Iron: 5.16mg
Vitamin A: 44.26µg
Vitamin C: 18.72mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce

When browning your ground beef, it's crucial not to stir it immediately after adding it to the hot pan. Let it sear and develop a nice crust before flipping it over. This will add a depth of flavor to your meat sauce. Also, using a cast-iron pan can retain heat well and give your meat a better browning. Remember, color means flavor in cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce

Prep ahead: Chop the onions and garlic in advance, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This will save time during the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Consider using a large skillet or pot for both cooking the sauce and boiling the pasta. This reduces the number of dishes to clean up afterward.

Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the meat sauce and freeze the extra portions for future quick and easy meals.

Multitask: While the pasta is boiling, work on preparing the sauce to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Quality ingredients: Use high-quality, chunky tomato sauce to enhance the flavor of the meat sauce without spending extra time on preparation.

Efficient tools: Utilize kitchen tools like a sharp chef's knife and a large skillet to streamline the cooking process.

Fresh herbs: Keep a small pot of fresh basil and thyme on hand for easy access to enhance the flavors of the dish without extra prep time.

Substitute Ingredients For Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce Recipe

penne pasta - Substitute with ziti: Ziti is a similar tube-shaped pasta that can be used as a substitute for penne in this recipe. It has a smooth texture and holds the meat sauce well.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for extra-virgin olive oil in this recipe.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle sweetness to the meat sauce.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic in this recipe, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can be used as a substitute for Italian seasoning, adding a classic Italian flavor to the meat sauce.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used to add heat and spice to the meat sauce, similar to red pepper flakes.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for fresh thyme, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef and can be used as a healthier substitute in the meat sauce.
fresh basil leaves - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for fresh basil leaves, adding a hint of sweet and peppery flavor to the meat sauce.
chunky tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for chunky tomato sauce, providing a similar tomato base for the meat sauce.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
fresh parsley - Substitute with dried parsley: Dried parsley can be used as a substitute for fresh parsley, adding a pop of color and mild herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Presenting Your Delicious Penne Pasta Dish

Elevate the pasta: Carefully twirl the penne pasta into a neat mound using tongs, ensuring it is evenly distributed on the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Create a rustic meat sauce bed: Spoon the rich meat sauce onto the plate, using the back of the spoon to create a rustic, yet refined bed for the pasta.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a glossy sheen.
Add a touch of elegance with basil leaves: Place a few whole basil leaves strategically on the plate to add a touch of elegance and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan: Generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, allowing it to melt slightly and infuse the dish with its savory richness.
Serve in a sophisticated bowl: Present the dish in a sophisticated, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the pasta and sauce.

Essential Tools for Making Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce

Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the pasta. It should be able to hold at least 4 quarts of water and the pasta comfortably.
Skillet: A skillet is used for sautéing the onions, garlic, and ground beef. It should be large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding.
Cast-iron pan: The cast-iron pan is used for browning the ground beef. It should be large enough to allow the beef to brown without overcrowding the pan.
Metal spatula: A metal spatula is used for flipping and lifting the ground beef while browning. It should be sturdy and heat-resistant.
Slotted spoon: A slotted spoon is used for transferring the browned ground beef from the cast-iron pan to the skillet. It should have slots to drain excess liquid or fat.
Colander: A colander is used for draining the cooked pasta. It should be large enough to hold all the pasta without spilling.

Storing and Freezing Your Penne Pasta Dish

Allow the penne pasta with meat sauce to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta and sauce into an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the pasta and sauce, follow these steps for the best results:
- Divide the cooled pasta and sauce into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing and to save space.
- Penne pasta with meat sauce can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen pasta and sauce, you have two options:
- Thaw the frozen pasta and sauce in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- For a quicker method, transfer the frozen pasta and sauce directly into a saucepan, add a splash of water, and reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the dish is heated through and the sauce is smooth.
When reheating, you may need to add a little extra tomato sauce or water to restore the desired consistency, as the pasta may absorb some of the liquid during storage.
Taste and adjust the seasonings, such as salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning, as needed before serving the reheated dish.

How To Reheat Leftover Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce

Reheat the penne pasta and meat sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.
For a quick and easy method, place the leftover penne pasta and meat sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through.
To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the penne pasta and meat sauce to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly.
For a crispy twist, reheat the penne pasta and meat sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
To maintain the texture of the penne pasta, avoid overcooking when reheating. The pasta should be heated through but not mushy.
If the meat sauce seems dry after reheating, add a small amount of tomato sauce, water, or chicken broth to help loosen it up and restore moisture.
For a fresh flavor boost, garnish the reheated penne pasta and meat sauce with freshly chopped basil, parsley, or grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Interesting Fact About Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce

The penne pasta with meat sauce recipe is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a versatile and comforting meal that can be easily customized to suit individual tastes. Whether you prefer a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or a milder flavor with fresh herbs, this dish can be adapted to your liking. Additionally, the combination of penne pasta and meat sauce provides a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. It's a timeless favorite that continues to bring people together over a delicious and fulfilling meal.

Is Making Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce Cost-Effective?

This penne pasta with meat sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as pasta, ground beef, and tomato sauce, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish offers a hearty and satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to please, earning it a solid 8 out of 10 rating for its affordability and deliciousness.

Is Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

This penne pasta with meat sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:

Healthy elements:

The recipe includes onions and garlic, which offer various health benefits like antioxidants and immune support
Using fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and parsley adds flavor without extra calories or sodium
Tomato sauce provides vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium

Unhealthy elements:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of ground beef, which can be high in saturated fat and calories
There's no mention of lean ground beef or draining excess fat after cooking
The pasta is a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole-grain alternatives
The recipe lacks additional vegetables, which could boost the nutritional value

To make this recipe healthier, I would suggest the following modifications:

Opt for lean ground beef (90% or higher) and drain any excess fat after browning
Reduce the amount of ground beef and incorporate more vegetables like diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase fiber and nutrient content
Use whole-grain or legume-based penne pasta for added fiber, protein, and nutrients
Decrease the amount of pasta and increase the portion of the meat and vegetable sauce
Consider using a low-sodium tomato sauce or making your own to control salt content
Add a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal and provide extra vitamins and minerals

Editor's Opinion on This Penne Pasta Recipe

The penne pasta with meat sauce recipe is a classic and comforting dish. The use of fresh herbs and spices adds depth of flavor to the sauce, while the technique of browning the ground beef in a cast-iron pan enhances the richness of the dish. The addition of sugar to the sauce helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, and the final touch of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Overall, this recipe is a delightful combination of simple ingredients and traditional cooking methods, resulting in a satisfying and delicious meal.

Enhance Your Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Create a mouthwatering garlic bread with a twist by adding roasted garlic and parmesan cheese to elevate the flavors.

Caesar Salad: Whip up a classic Caesar salad with a homemade dressing and freshly shaved parmesan for a refreshing side to complement the hearty penne pasta with meat sauce.

Bruschetta: Prepare a delightful bruschetta with juicy tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze for a light and flavorful accompaniment to the rich meat sauce.

Similar Recipes to Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These colorful and flavorful skewers are a great addition to any barbecue or cookout. The mix of fresh vegetables and savory marinade will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Berry Cobbler: This sweet and fruity dessert is the perfect way to showcase seasonal berries. The warm, bubbling cobbler topped with a golden crust is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Penne Pasta Dinner

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect way to start off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: Slices of toasted baguette topped with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, garlic, and basil, bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to please. It's a great way to whet your appetite before the main course.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Why trust this Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted classic, perfected over generations. The combination of penne pasta and savory meat sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal. The use of extra-virgin olive oil and fresh herbs infuses the dish with rich flavors. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve delicious results. With a balance of seasonings and quality ingredients like ground beef and chunky tomato sauce, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience. Trust in the time-tested flavors and techniques of this recipe for a memorable meal.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to make this penne pasta with meat sauce recipe?

The recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes to prepare, from start to finish.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. The meat sauce pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes.

Can I substitute ground beef with another type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used as a substitute for ground beef.

How can I store the leftover meat sauce?

You can store the leftover meat sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or adding more vegetables such as mushrooms and bell peppers to the sauce.