Introduction
This creamy pasta dish with beef mince is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. With a rich blend of flavors from garlic, onion, and Italian herbs, this recipe is both hearty and satisfying. It’s also quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy households.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 onion, finely chopped
500g/1 lb beef mince / ground beef
2 tsp Italian herbs
2 tbsp tomato paste
400g/14 oz can crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (chilli flakes, optional)
1 1/2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 cups (1 L) chicken stock/broth, low sodium
350g/12 oz fusilli, penne, elbow macaroni or other short pasta
3/4 cups thickened/heavy cream
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 5 servings
Enjoy this delicious and creamy beef pasta dish topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for an added touch of freshness. Perfect for a family meal or to impress guests!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sauté
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-based pot over high heat. Add the finely minced garlic and chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 1 1/2 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and translucent.
Cook beef & seasonings
Add the beef mince to the pot and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until no red meat is visible. Stir in the Italian herbs and cook for an additional 30 seconds, then add the tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flavor of the paste.
All in
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken stock, then season with cooking salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine all the ingredients, then add the pasta.
Cook 15 min
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes and more frequently towards the end to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The pasta should be just about cooked after this time.
Creamy
Add the thickened cream to the pot and let it simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. The sauce will still be quite saucy, which is desired as the pasta will absorb some liquid as it sits.
Serve
Remove the pot from the stove. Stir the mixture well and ladle it into bowls. Serve with finely grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
Italian Herbs
Use a store-bought mix of Italian herbs, which is commonly available in grocery stores. If you don’t have any, a blend of dried oregano, parsley, and basil can be used. Alternatively, you may substitute with a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Chicken stock/broth
Using chicken stock or broth instead of water enhances the flavor of the dish. It is economical to use stock powder, such as Vegeta or Knorr Chinese chicken stock powder, mixed with water for a tasty alternative.
Pasta Options
Any short pasta, such as macaroni or penne, can be used. Avoid tiny types like risoni or orzo. If using long pasta, break it in half and approximately 400g/14oz will work well.
Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish is not suitable for freezing.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Heat olive oil in a large heavy-based pot at high heat. Sauté finely minced garlic and chopped onions until they are softened and fragrant, approximately 1 1/2 minutes.
Cooking Meat
Add beef mince to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until no red meat is visible. Incorporate Italian herbs and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste.
Combining Ingredients
Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well, then add pasta to the pot.
Simmering
Allow the mixture to come to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, ensuring the pasta does not stick to the bottom of the pot until the pasta is nearly cooked.
Finishing with Cream
Incorporate heavy cream and let it simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes. The mixture should remain saucy for a creamy texture as the pasta absorbs liquid.
Serving
Remove from heat and stir well. Ladle into bowls and serve with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta such as fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni can be used. Long pasta can be broken in half.
How can I adjust the flavor of the dish?
You can use a mix of dried oregano, parsley, and basil if you don’t have Italian herbs. Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the flavor.
Can I substitute chicken stock?
Yes, you can use vegetable stock or other stock powders as economical alternatives.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish is not suitable for freezing.
Conclusion
This creamy pasta dish combines robust flavors from the beef, aromatic herbs, and a luscious cream sauce, creating a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone. The use of chicken stock enhances the overall taste, making each bite rich and satisfying. With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Pasta
Swap the beef for sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Spicy Sausage Pasta
Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef, and add extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
Cheesy Pasta Bake
After cooking, transfer the dish to a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Pasta Primavera
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus, peas, and cherry tomatoes to create a fresh, vibrant dish.
Coconut Curry Pasta
Replace the tomato base with coconut milk and add curry powder for an exotic twist on the classic recipe.
One-Pot Chicken Alfredo
Use diced chicken in place of beef and a cream-based sauce with Parmesan for a rich and creamy dish.
Mushroom Stroganoff
Substitute beef with mushrooms and create a creamy sauce using sour cream for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
