Beef Pasta Vegetables Recipe for a Healthy Dinner Delight

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty plate of beef pasta loaded with colorful vegetables. This recipe combines tender beef, al dente pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables, creating a balanced meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a wholesome dish, this beef pasta vegetables recipe hits all the right notes.

With vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and juicy tomatoes mingling with savory beef and pasta, every bite bursts with flavor and texture. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.

Ready to dive into a bowl of this satisfying, colorful, and healthy pasta dish? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef pasta vegetables recipe is a fantastic way to bring together protein, carbs, and plenty of nutrients in one delicious plate. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for weeknights, and easy to scale up for larger gatherings.

Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Balanced nutrition: Lean beef provides protein, pasta offers energy-boosting carbs, and vegetables add fiber and vitamins.
• Full of flavor: Fresh herbs, garlic, and a rich tomato base make this dish irresistible.
• One-pot meal option: Minimal cleanup by cooking everything together.
• Customizable: Swap or add vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season.
• Family-friendly: A comforting dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 300g (10 oz) beef mince (ground beef)
• 250g (9 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for a kick)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• 500ml (2 cups) beef broth or water (for cooking pasta)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Large pot for boiling pasta (if not cooking pasta in skillet)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander (if draining pasta separately)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta: If cooking pasta separately, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Alternatively, you can cook the pasta directly in the skillet with broth for a one-pot meal (see step 5).
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Cook the beef: Add the beef mince to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and basil.
4. Add the vegetables: Toss in the diced bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and chopped tomatoes. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften but still retain some bite. If using spinach, stir it in now and cook until wilted.
5. Add pasta and liquid: If you want a one-pot dish, add the uncooked pasta and beef broth (or water) directly to the skillet. Stir well, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. If you cooked the pasta separately, simply add the cooked pasta into the skillet now and mix well to combine everything.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if desired. Let the dish simmer for another 2 minutes to meld flavors.
7. Serve: Spoon the beef pasta vegetables into bowls. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“Use whatever vegetables you have on hand! Mushrooms, carrots, broccoli, or peas all work beautifully in this recipe.”

Here are some handy tips to make this recipe even better:

• Make it spicy: Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Use ground turkey or chicken: For a leaner protein alternative.
• Go vegetarian: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based meat substitute for a hearty veggie version. Check out our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals for inspiration.
• Try different pasta: Whole wheat, gluten-free, or ancient grain pasta like those featured in our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
• Make ahead: Prepare the beef and vegetables in advance, then quickly warm and toss with freshly cooked pasta for a speedy dinner.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This beef pasta vegetable dish is perfect on its own for a satisfying meal, but you can complement it with a few tasty sides to create a full dining experience.

• Garlic bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors.
• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the heartiness.
• Roasted vegetables: Add extra veggies like roasted carrots or asparagus for more color and nutrients.
• Wine pairing: A medium-bodied red like Merlot or a light Pinot Noir enhances the beef’s flavors.

Conclusion

This beef pasta vegetables recipe is a true kitchen staple that combines ease, nutrition, and taste in one delicious package. Its versatility makes it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or casual gatherings.

You’ll appreciate how the fresh vegetables brighten the dish and add important nutrients, while the beef lends a satisfying richness.

Whether you stick with the classic combination or experiment with your favorite veggies and spices, this recipe offers endless opportunities to customize and enjoy. For more wholesome and flavorful meal ideas, don’t forget to explore our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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