Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce: Easy, Savory Comfort Food Recipe
A classic and comforting dish featuring ground beef simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with onions, bell peppers, and seasonings, combined with pasta. This hearty meal is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, delivering a balanced taste of savory beef and rich tomato with a hint of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces ground beef lean preferred
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 46 ounces tomato juice or crushed tomatoes
- 16 ounces pasta rotini, penne, elbow macaroni, or similar
- Olive oil optional, for sautéing
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Italian seasoning or dried herbs optional
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until vegetables soften.
- Stir in chili powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Add ketchup and tomato juice (or crushed tomatoes), stir well.
- Add dry pasta directly to the pot, stirring to coat with sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente (about 20 minutes). Add water in half-cup increments if the sauce gets too thick before pasta cooks.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Tomato juice adds a unique sweetness and flavor compared to using tomato sauce alone.
- Brown sugar and ketchup balance acidity and add depth.
- Chili powder provides a subtle warmth—adjust to taste for spice preference.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2-3 days.
- You can substitute tomato juice with canned crushed tomatoes for a thicker sauce.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer; short pasta works best for even cooking.
DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY RECIPE?
If you have, then share it with us by sending a photo. We’re excited to see what you’ve made