Ground Beef Penne Pasta Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of pasta after a long day, and our ground beef penne pasta recipe delivers just that. This dish combines tender, perfectly cooked penne with savory ground beef and a rich tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is easy to prepare and packs a punch of deliciousness in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that’s satisfying, hearty, and perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

If you love Italian-inspired dinners but want a fuss-free approach, this recipe is for you. It uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and the step-by-step instructions keep things straightforward.

Plus, the dish is versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices. Ready to learn how to make a crowd-pleasing ground beef penne pasta?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ground beef penne pasta recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The combination of ground beef and a robust tomato sauce creates a rich, meaty base that clings perfectly to the penne pasta.

Second, it’s a one-pot wonder (mostly) — you cook the beef and sauce in one pan, then combine it with the pasta for easy cleanup. Third, it’s highly adaptable.

Add some fresh spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor. You can also swap the beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes if you prefer.

Finally, this recipe is family-friendly and perfect for meal prep. It reheats beautifully, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or leftovers.

With minimal effort, you get a satisfying, comforting dish that everyone at the table will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean to fat ratio recommended)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually about 11-13 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up into small pieces. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat for a leaner dish.
4. Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, coating each piece of pasta with the rich beef tomato sauce.
6. Add Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir to incorporate. This adds a lovely salty, creamy depth to the dish.
7. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

To save time, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

• Add vegetables: For a nutritious boost, stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach along with the onions.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce if you like extra heat.
• Cheese options: Swap Parmesan for mozzarella or pecorino for a different flavor profile. For a melty finish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and broil for 2-3 minutes.
• Meat alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat substitute to suit your dietary preferences.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular penne with gluten-free pasta varieties available in stores.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This ground beef penne pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing balance to the rich pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. If you want to keep things light, a side of steamed green beans or a tomato and cucumber salad works beautifully.

Don’t forget a glass of your favorite red wine like Chianti or Merlot to elevate the experience, or simply enjoy it with a cold sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.

Conclusion

This ground beef penne pasta recipe is a timeless classic that’s both easy and rewarding to make. The blend of savory ground beef with a flavorful tomato sauce and al dente pasta creates a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish is sure to satisfy.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible even for beginner cooks. Plus, the flexibility to customize with veggies, spices, or different proteins makes it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for more inspiration.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a satisfying, homemade meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table!

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