Description
A comforting one-pot meal featuring tender pasta, seasoned ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce that captures the essence of fall.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the meat: Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the aromatics: Push meat to the side, add onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the pasta: Once the sauce is simmering, add the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Finish and serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Stir in half the cheese until melted if using, then spoon into bowls and top with remaining cheese and parsley.
Notes
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Add extra cheese for a Southern-baked vibe, or mix in veggies for extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern