Looking for a super simple and tasty dinner idea? My Easy Peasy Pasta is the perfect solution! This dish is not only quick and delicious but also a hit with the kids. Plus, it’s done in under 30 minutes! It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with all the comforting goodness you crave on a busy weeknight.
Method
Boil the Pasta
To begin, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt will help season the pasta from the inside out. Add the macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once the macaroni is cooked al dente, drain it using a colander and set it aside. Keep the pot handy, as you’ll use it again for the next steps.
Sauté the Onion
In the same pot used for boiling pasta, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions. Sauté the onions until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps develop a rich, aromatic base for the dish. Stir the onions occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from burning.
Brown the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pot with the softened onions. Break the meat apart using a wooden spoon to ensure it cooks evenly. Season the beef with cinnamon, salt, and pepper. The cinnamon adds a subtle warmth that pairs surprisingly well with the savory beef. Cook the meat thoroughly until it is browned and no longer pink, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. As the beef cooks, it will release its juices, which will reduce as the meat browns.
Combine and Simmer
With the beef fully cooked, it’s time to add the pasta back into the pot. Pour in the pasta sauce, followed by the Italian seasoning, crushed garlic, and water. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce and the beef is evenly distributed. Add a little more salt and pepper if needed. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot partially. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. The simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add Cheese and Parsley
Once the pasta has absorbed some of the sauce and everything has thickened slightly, it’s time for the cheesy goodness! Stir in the shredded mozzarella and chopped parsley. Continue to cook until the cheese has melted completely and is nicely incorporated into the sauce. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch that balances the richness of the cheese and beef.
Serve Warm
Spoon the hearty pasta onto plates or into bowls. Top each serving with a bit of extra parsley or cheese if you like. This dish is best enjoyed while warm, so don’t let it sit for too long.
Necessary Tools
- Large pot
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Grate
Easy Peasy Pasta Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes20
minutes30
minutesIngredients
1 pkg macaroni (454g)
1 can pasta sauce (680ml)
½ kg ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 garlic clove, crushed
1/2 cup parsley, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup water
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until softened.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Season with cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and fully browned.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Add the pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, crushed garlic, and water. Stir to combine. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Let It Simmer: Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese and Parsley: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and chopped parsley. Cook until the cheese has melted and everything is well mixed.
- Serve Warm: Dish out the pasta and enjoy! Garnish with extra parsley if you like.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta since it will cook a bit more when simmered with the sauce.
- Be mindful not to burn the onions cook them just until they are translucent.
- Add cheese at the end to prevent it from becoming too stringy.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with a crisp green salad for balance.
- Serve with a slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette.
- Top with extra cheese for extra gooey goodness!
Fun Fact
Did you know? Adding a touch of cinnamon to beef dishes is common in Mediterranean cooking! It gives a subtle warmth that complements the savory flavors.
Conclusion
There you have it a super easy and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. This Easy Peasy Pasta truly lives up to its name, offering big flavors without much fuss. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just craving comfort food, this dish is sure to hit the spot!
