Description
This Beef and Cheddar Pasta is a comforting dish featuring tender pasta enveloped in a savory beef sauce, topped with melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, offering a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice, preferably penne or rotini)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Optionally, drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the sauce.
- Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and evenly distributed.
- Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
- Serve generous portions of the beef and cheddar pasta using a large spoon or tongs.
- Optionally, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
- Serve hot, ideally with a side salad or garlic bread.
Notes
- Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes