Pasta with minced meat

Ground meat pasta: a simple, tasty, and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Who can resist a delicious serving of ground meat pasta, seasoned with a rich and creamy sauce? This recipe is not only quick but also extremely satisfying, perfect for a weekend dinner or a family meal. Ground meat pasta is a versatile dish that can be customized according to everyone’s preferences, making it ideal for delighting loved ones.

The history of pasta is fascinating, with its origins in ancient culinary traditions. Over time, pasta has evolved into a beloved dish worldwide. The combination of pasta with ground meat is a perfect example of simplicity and flavor combined with available ingredients, transforming into a comforting and flavorful meal.

Necessary ingredients:

- 250 g pasta (preferably spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 150 g ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1/2 bell pepper (any color you prefer, but red pepper adds a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 small onion
- 1 garlic clove
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (or tomato sauce for a more concentrated sauce)
- Oil for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh or dried basil for extra flavor

Preparation:

1. Boil the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to enhance the pasta's flavor. When the water reaches a boiling point, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes. Make sure the pasta is al dente, meaning cooked but still firm in texture.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, add a splash of oil and heat it over medium heat. Start by sautéing the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent, then add the crushed garlic clove and diced bell pepper. Continue to sauté the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.

3. Add the ground meat: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the ground meat. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces. Cook the meat for about 5 minutes until it changes color and is well-cooked. Add salt and pepper to taste.

4. Incorporate the tomato paste: Once the meat is cooked, add the tomato paste and mix well. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. If you want a richer sauce, you can also add a bit of water or broth.

5. Combine the pasta with the sauce: When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the skillet over the meat sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta with the flavorful sauce.

6. Finish with sour cream: Add the sour cream and mix well until the sauce becomes creamy and uniform. Let it simmer for another minute, then taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

7. Serve hot: Portion the ground meat pasta into deep plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves or grated cheese if desired. This detail not only adds an attractive appearance but also an extra layer of flavor.

Useful tips:

- Choose the right pasta: While any type of pasta can be used, shapes that hold the sauce, like penne or fusilli, are often preferred for a richer tasting dish.
- Ground meat: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken or turkey for a leaner option. Adding spices like oregano, thyme, or paprika can enhance the flavor.
- Variations: This recipe lends itself to various variations. You can add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to the sauce to make it more nutritious. Additionally, adding chili peppers or spicy seasonings can provide an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits:

- Pasta is an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy.
- Ground meat provides essential proteins for the body, contributing to tissue building and repair.
- Added vegetables, like onion and bell pepper, are rich in vitamins and minerals, having antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is an excellent nutritional choice and adds a slightly different texture.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the ground meat with a plant-based alternative, such as textured soy or minced mushrooms, and add additional vegetables for extra consistency.

3. What can I serve alongside the pasta?
A fresh green salad with a simple dressing or a flavorful focaccia are perfect accompaniments to complete the meal.

This ground meat pasta recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor and comfort. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, you’ll want to make it again and again. Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent in the kitchen!