Okay, so you’re looking for a super easy weeknight dinner? You’ve come to the right place! I’m absolutely obsessed with this Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals – it’s basically the ultimate comfort food, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Seriously, this is one of those recipes that’s been a lifesaver for me on busy nights, and I know you’re going to love it too.

I found this recipe, well, actually, I *pinned* it (ha!) a while back, and it’s become a staple in my house. It’s got everything you want: it’s quick, it’s tasty, and it’s something everyone in the family will gobble up. Plus, it’s super versatile, so you can tweak it to your heart’s content. I’ve been making this for years, and it’s always a hit. It’s truly one of my favorite easy meals!

Trust me, this Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals is a total game-changer. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Delicious *Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals*

Alright, so here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen! Don’t worry, it’s a short list, and you probably already have most of it in your pantry.

• 1 pound of ground beef (I usually go for 80/20, but you do you!)
• 1 medium onion, chopped.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced (fresh is best, but pre-minced works in a pinch).
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes – I like the ones with Italian seasoning already added.
• 1 cup of beef broth.
• 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (more on that later!).
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt – or to taste!
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper – freshly ground if you’re fancy!
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – gotta have that cheesy goodness!

See? Easy peasy!

How to Make the Perfect *Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals*

Okay, so here’s the fun part – actually making this deliciousness! Don’t worry, it’s super simple, and I’ll walk you through every step. You got this, I promise!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Browning the Ground Beef

First up, we gotta get that ground beef browned. Throw it in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Now, the key here is to break it up as it cooks – I use a spatula for this, just kinda chop it up until it’s all nice and crumbly. Cook it until it’s fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. *Important!* Once it’s browned, drain off all that extra grease. Nobody wants a greasy pasta dish! You can either carefully pour it off or use a spoon to scoop it out. Be careful, it splatters!

Sautéing Aromatics

Next up, we’re adding the flavor! Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this for about 3-5 minutes, until the onions have softened and become translucent. You’ll start to smell that amazing garlic aroma – yum! This step is super important because it really builds the flavor base for the whole dish. Don’t rush it; let those onions and garlic do their thing!

Simmering the Sauce

Alright, time for the sauce! Stir in those diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a boil, and then add in your pasta. Now, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook until the pasta is perfectly al dente – usually about 8-10 minutes, but check the package instructions for your specific pasta. I like to stir it occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Melting the Cheese and Serving

Almost there! Once the pasta is cooked, stir in that glorious shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and gooey. Oh man, this is the best part! Give it a good stir to make sure the cheese is evenly distributed. Then, take it off the heat and let it sit for a minute or two. This lets the flavors meld together even more. Serve it up hot and enjoy! You can even add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top if you’re feeling extra cheesy (and who isn’t?).

Why You’ll Love This *Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals*

Okay, so why is this recipe a winner? Listen up, because I’m about to tell you all the reasons this is going to become a regular in your house. Seriously, you’ll be making this all the time!

Quick and Easy

Seriously, it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver!

Family-Friendly

Even the pickiest eaters love this dish. My kids practically inhale it, and that’s saying something! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Customizable

You can add whatever veggies you have on hand, switch up the cheese, or use different pasta shapes. Make it your own! I change it up all the time.

Delicious and Flavorful

It’s packed with flavor, thanks to the browned ground beef, the Italian seasoning, and that melty cheese. Pure comfort food at its finest!

*Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals* Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Okay, so let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe is super flexible, so don’t worry if you don’t have *exactly* what I use. Here’s a little rundown on some swaps and additions you can make. It’s all about making it your own!

Ground Beef Options

I usually use 80/20 ground beef because I like the flavor, but you can totally use a leaner option if you want. If you go for something like 90/10, you might need to add a little bit of olive oil to the pan when you brown the beef to prevent it from drying out. You can even use ground turkey or ground chicken! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as they might cook a little faster.

Pasta Varieties

I love using penne or rotini for this recipe because they hold the sauce so well. But honestly, any pasta shape will work! Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes have different cooking times. So, make sure you check the package instructions and cook your pasta to al dente – you don’t want it to get mushy! Also, remember to salt your pasta water, it makes a huge difference!

Cheese Choices

Cheddar is classic, and it’s what I usually go for, but feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would be amazing. You could even use some pepper jack if you want to add a little kick. Just make sure it melts well!

Vegetable Add-ins

Wanna sneak in some extra veggies? Go for it! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some frozen peas would be delicious additions. Just add them to the skillet with the onions and garlic, and cook them until they’re tender before adding the other ingredients. I love adding a can of drained and rinsed mushrooms. Yum!

Tips for Success with *Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals*

Okay, so you want to make this dish *perfect*, right? Here are a few pro tips to make sure your Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals turns out amazing every single time! Trust me, these little things make a big difference.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

This is a big one! Overcooked pasta is a total no-no. Nobody wants mushy pasta in their dinner. Cook your pasta al dente – meaning it should still have a little bite to it. It’ll continue to cook a bit in the sauce, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked.

Season to Taste

Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go! Everyone’s taste buds are different. Add a little more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if you think it needs it. The best part of cooking is making it your own, so don’t be shy!

Use High-Quality Ingredients

While this recipe is super simple, using good quality ingredients will really elevate the flavor. Fresh garlic, good quality ground beef, and a cheese you actually enjoy will make all the difference. It’s the little things, you know?

*Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals* Variations

Okay, so you’ve nailed the basic recipe? Awesome! Now it’s time to get creative and switch things up! This Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals is super versatile, so you can totally customize it to fit your mood or what you have in the fridge. Here are a few ideas to get you started! Trust me, the possibilities are endless!

Spicy Version

If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the Italian seasoning. Or, you can add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. You could even add a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end. Careful, it splatters!

Italian-Inspired

Want a more classic Italian flavor? Add a teaspoon of dried oregano and a bay leaf to the sauce while it simmers. You could also use Italian sausage instead of ground beef. And, of course, a sprinkle of fresh basil on top is always a great idea! Wow!

Taco-Inspired

For a fun twist, use taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning. Add some black beans and corn to the sauce. Top it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. You could even add a little bit of cumin and chili powder. Delish!

Frequently Asked Questions About *Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals*

Okay, so you’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get about this super easy recipe. Hopefully, this helps you out!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals is great for meal prepping. You can make the whole thing and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Leftovers are the BEST!

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is pretty much a meal in itself, but if you want to make it a little fancier, you can totally add some sides! A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice. Garlic bread is also a classic pairing, and who doesn’t love garlic bread? A steamed veggie like broccoli or green beans is a great way to add some extra nutrients.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze it! Let the cooked pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll keep in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. It might change the texture of the pasta a bit, but it’ll still taste delicious!

How can I make this recipe healthier?

If you’re looking to make this a bit healthier, there are a few things you can do. Use lean ground beef (like 90/10) or even ground turkey or chicken. You can also add more veggies, like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. And, of course, you can always go lighter on the cheese. It will be amazing, regardless!

Estimated Nutritional Information for *Pin by Kathryn Moore on Kathy | Beef recipes for dinner, Beef pasta recipes, Easy meals*

Alright, so, I’m no nutritionist, and I don’t have a fancy lab to test this stuff! But, I’ve run this recipe through a few online calculators, and here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional info *per serving*. Keep in mind, this is just a guess, based on the ingredients and serving size, so it might vary a little bit. I’m hoping to get better at this soon!

I hope it is helpful!

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out meal prep ideas for dinner.

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