When it comes to enjoying a delightful plate of penne pasta with meat sauce, the right pairings can elevate the experience. Imagine a crisp garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The crunch of fresh greens complements the hearty sauce, creating a fantastic balance on your plate. Then there’s garlic bread—slathered in butter and herbs, it’s the ultimate side that no pasta can resist. Let’s not forget a glass of red wine. A medium-bodied Chianti can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Now, as the sun begins to set and the aroma of your dish fills the air, the anticipation grows. Let’s dive into one of Italy’s most beloved combinations and explore penne pasta with meat sauce in detail.
What is Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce?
Penne pasta with meat sauce is more than just a combination of ingredients—it’s a classic Italian dish that combines tubular pasta with a rich meat sauce, often featuring ground beef or other meats, tomato, and aromatic herbs. The sauce clings to each piece of penne, creating a satisfying and filling dish.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can make it to suit your cravings or dietary preferences, whether it’s with lean ground turkey, vegetarian substitutes, or a variety of delightful spices.
How Does It Taste?
The first bite of penne pasta with meat sauce is an experience of comfort. The penne offers a chewy texture that contrasts perfectly with the rich, savory sauce, simmered slowly to develop intense flavors. The subtle sweetness of tomatoes, combined with the umami essence of ground beef, creates a beautiful harmony in your mouth. Every spoonful delivers warmth, while the fragrant herbs make it aromatic and appealing.
Why You’ll Love This?
This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about satisfaction. You’ll appreciate the following:
- Quick and Easy: It gathers in one pot, making the cooking and clean-up effortless.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: It delivers both warmth and social delight.
- Nutritional Value: Packed with proteins, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins, it nourishes the body while satisfying the palate.
- Customizable: Whether you’re vegetarian or carnivorous, you can modify the recipe to fit your dietary lifestyle.
Ingredients
Before we jump into cooking, let’s gather the essentials. Here’s what you need:
- ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 medium onion, roughly chopped (150 g)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
- 500 g lean ground beef
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 800 g high-quality canned diced tomatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1½ teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 500 g penne pasta
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional; skip if tomatoes are naturally sweet)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Grate your carrots and finely chop your fresh herbs. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pan, heat your olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the garlic and rosemary, stirring until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds to a minute. This is where the magic begins—your kitchen should be smelling divine.
Step 3: Browning the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks. Season it with salt, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook until browned, approximately 6-7 minutes. Don’t forget to taste; adjust seasoning as you go!
Step 4: Add Veggies and Tomato
Stir in the grated carrots, canned tomatoes (and their juices), tomato paste, and the sugar (if using). Let this mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld beautifully over about 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
About 10 minutes before the sauce is ready, boil salt water in a large pot and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain, but don’t rinse. This will help the sauce stick.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is finished simmering, mix the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated. Cook together for another 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to integrate.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Plate your penne pasta, and top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. A drizzle of olive oil adds a finishing touch, making it look—and taste—even better.
Tips on Making Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce
Making this dish can be straightforward, but these tips will help you elevate it even further:
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and rosemary make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Simmering: Patience is key. Letting the sauce simmer brings out rich flavors.
- Make Ahead: This sauce freezes well. You can prepare it a day or two in advance.
- Taste Seasoning: Adjust spices according to your preference. A little extra chili powder can kick things up!
- Pasta Cooking Time: Cook the pasta just before serving to retain its texture.
Nutrition Information
A standard serving of penne pasta with meat sauce provides healthy protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 550
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
How Do You Store This Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce?
Leftover penne pasta with meat sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce?
Here are some alternatives that can add variety or adjust the dish to fit your dietary restrictions:
- Ground Turkey: A healthier option that’s lower in fat but still delicious.
- Vegetarian Crumbles: For a meatless alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Chickpeas or Lentils: These can replace meat while adding protein and texture.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier version, full of fiber and nutrients.
- Creamy Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, a creamy béchamel instead of tomato can change the flavor profile completely.
Conclusion
Penne pasta with meat sauce is a comforting dish that can bring people together, whether it’s a weekday family dinner or a festive gathering. The blend of flavors, aromas, and textures makes it a perennial favorite.
As you prepare your very own batch, remember that each step involves not just cooking but also storytelling. It’s a chance to create new memories around the table, sharing laughter and love over a meal made from scratch. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine.
So, here’s to great food, wonderful company, and the joy of a plate filled with homemade goodness!
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Penne Pasta and Meat Sauce – Easy Meals To Cook
Description
Growing up, Sundays meant pasta. I still recall the way the scent of simmering meat sauce would waft through my childhood home. It inspired me to venture out and create my own version of this comforting feast. Penne pasta with meat sauce isn't just a meal; it holds memory and warmth, also nourishing soul and body alike. In this blog, I’ll share my personal take on it, complete with tips, tricks, and all the essential details to craft this dish effortlessly.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
-
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Grate your carrots and finely chop your fresh herbs. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
-
In a large pan, heat your olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the garlic and rosemary, stirring until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds to a minute. This is where the magic begins—your kitchen should be smelling divine.
Step 3: Browning the Beef
-
Add the ground beef to the pan. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks. Season it with salt, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook until browned, approximately 6-7 minutes. Don’t forget to taste; adjust seasoning as you go!
Step 4: Add Veggies and Tomato
-
Stir in the grated carrots, canned tomatoes (and their juices), tomato paste, and the sugar (if using). Let this mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld beautifully over about 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
-
About 10 minutes before the sauce is ready, boil salt water in a large pot and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain, but don’t rinse. This will help the sauce stick.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
-
Once the sauce is finished simmering, mix the cooked penne into the sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated. Cook together for another 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to integrate.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
-
Plate your penne pasta, and top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. A drizzle of olive oil adds a finishing touch, making it look—and taste—even better.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 70g24%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and rosemary make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Simmering: Patience is key. Letting the sauce simmer brings out rich flavors.
- Make Ahead: This sauce freezes well. You can prepare it a day or two in advance.
- Taste Seasoning: Adjust spices according to your preference. A little extra chili powder can kick things up!
- Pasta Cooking Time: Cook the pasta just before serving to retain its texture.
