Looking for a hearty and satisfying dinner that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen? You’re in luck! This Quick Minced Beef Trottole Pasta with Rich Tomato Sauce is perfect for anyone juggling busy weeknights but still craving a homemade, flavorful meal. Packed with savory minced beef, perfectly cooked trottole pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just want a quick comfort food fix, this dish delivers easy pasta recipes that are delicious, filling, and stress-free.
Why You’ll Love This Minced Beef Trottole Pasta
Nutritious and Satisfying
Minced beef is a great source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Pairing it with pasta gives you a balanced meal that fuels your day. According to USDA data, a 3-ounce serving of lean minced beef provides around 22 grams of protein, making it ideal for active adults and growing kids alike.
Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
With a prep and cook time of under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for quick dinner recipes. No long waits, no complicated steps—just delicious food on the table fast.
Family-Friendly Flavor
Tomato sauce, garlic, and a hint of herbs create a rich, comforting flavor that everyone will love. Even picky eaters often enjoy this pasta!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz trottole pasta
- 1 lb minced beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook trottole pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Add onion and garlic to the beef. Cook until soft and fragrant.
4. Add Tomato Sauce and Herbs
Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything until well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Quick Tips for the Best Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.
- Avoid overcooking pasta—al dente texture works best.
- For a lighter version, substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Table: Comparison of Pasta Types for Minced Beef Dishes
| Pasta Type | Cooking Time | Texture | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trottole | 10-12 min | Firm & Twisty | Thick sauces, minced beef |
| Penne | 11 min | Tubular & Soft | Creamy or chunky sauces |
| Fusilli | 10-11 min | Spiral & Chewy | Tomato-based sauces |
| Spaghetti | 9-10 min | Smooth & Slender | Light sauces |
| Rigatoni | 12 min | Thick & Ridged | Rich sauces, baked dishes |
FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
2. Can I freeze minced beef trottole pasta?
Absolutely. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, the flavors are mild and family-friendly. You can reduce the garlic or herbs if preferred.
4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne or fusilli work well. Adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
5. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use lean minced beef, whole wheat pasta, or add extra vegetables like bell peppers and spinach.
6. Can I add cheese?
Definitely! Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar can be added to enhance flavor.
7. How long does it take to cook?
Total cook time is around 25-30 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinner ideas.
Conclusion
This Quick Minced Beef Trottole Pasta with Rich Tomato Sauce is a go-to recipe for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful, and easy pasta dish. Give it a try tonight, and let us know how your family loved it! Comment below with your questions or variations—you might inspire someone else’s dinner plan tonight!
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