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Introduction
For over six years, this recipe has remained a crowd favorite at every gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive party, people always ask for it by name. Easy to make, delicious, and guaranteed to please, this dish has earned its spot as a go-to comfort food. Let’s dive into how you can make it!
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked pasta (penne or elbow macaroni work best)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the meat: Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7 minutes.
Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat through.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the pasta and sauce. Cover the skillet and let it sit on low heat for a few minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad or garlic bread. It can also be served as a standalone comfort meal.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra sauce if needed to keep the pasta moist.
Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, this recipe freezes well. Place the cooled dish in an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it up on the stove or in the oven.
Variations:
Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for lentils, mushrooms, or a veggie-based meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian version.
Spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chilies to the sauce for an extra kick.
Cheese lovers: Add extra cheese in different varieties such as Parmesan, gouda, or provolone for a more indulgent flavor.
Gluten-free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a suitable option for those with dietary restrictions.
FAQs:
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