Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be prepared in one pan, look no further than this Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet. This dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef with tender elbow noodles, all simmered in a savory broth and topped off with a hint of spice. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a comforting home-cooked meal. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
A Personal Story Behind My Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet Journey
This Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet has a special place in my family’s recipe book. Growing up, my mom would whip it up on chilly evenings when we needed something hearty and filling. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafting through the house would signal that dinner was ready, and we would gather around the table, excited for a warm meal. Now, I carry on this tradition and love making it for my family, creating new memories while enjoying the same comforting flavors.
What Makes This Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the ability to customize it. It’s packed with protein from the ground beef, and the combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy with loved ones. Add in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost, making it not only tasty but also wholesome!
The Full Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 to 4 cloves)
- 1½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- 8-ounce can of tomato sauce
- 32 ounces beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Frank’s Red Hot Sauce (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cups elbow noodles (macaroni)
- ¼ cup dairy-free sour cream (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, draining any excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Spices and Liquids: Sprinkle in the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Next, pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cook Noodles: Add the elbow noodles to the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened. This step is crucial to ensure the noodles absorb all the wonderful flavors!
- Finish and Serve: If desired, stir in the dairy-free sour cream for a creamy finish. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty beef pasta dish!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet
This dish is incredibly versatile! You can serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance out the flavors. For a little extra crunch, consider topping it with some crispy fried onions or freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil. If you want to introduce more veggies, feel free to toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach when you add the ground beef. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can work nicely. Additionally, you could use lentils for a vegetarian option.
Is it okay to add more spices?
Of course! Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste preferences.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 400
- Servings: 4
Hearty Beef Pasta Skillet
Equipment
- Skillet A large skillet is recommended for this recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic about 3 to 4 cloves
- 1.5 teaspoons salt or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 can tomato sauce 8-ounce
- 32 ounces beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Frank's Red Hot Sauce or to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cups elbow noodles macaroni
- 0.25 cup dairy-free sour cream optional, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, draining any excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Spices and Liquids: Sprinkle in the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Next, pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Frank's Red Hot Sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cook Noodles: Add the elbow noodles to the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Finish and Serve: If desired, stir in the dairy-free sour cream for a creamy finish. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty beef pasta dish!