Macaroni with Ground Meat Sauce

This delightful dish combines the comfort of pasta with a rich, flavorful meat sauce. The perfect meal for a cozy evening, macaroni with ground meat sauce is both satisfying and simple to prepare. With tender macaroni enveloped in a savory sauce made from ground meat, tomatoes, and a hint of spice, it's sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is versatile and allows for ingredient substitutions to suit dietary needs or preferences. A hearty meal, it delivers a balance of proteins, carbs, and essential nutrients. Cooking this dish fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that'll have everyone anticipating dinner. The addition of spices like salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors of the meat and tomatoes. Preparing this dish requires minimal time and effort, making it an excellent choice for a busy weeknight. With a little preparation and a few fresh ingredients, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 300 g macaroni
• 300-400 g ground meat
• 1 medium onion
• 1 large tomato
• 200 g tomato sauce or paste

Spices

• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt, then cook the macaroni as per the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: Finely chop the medium onion. Blanch the large tomato in boiling water for easier peeling, then chop it finely.

3. Cook the Onion and Tomato: In a large pan over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in a bit of oil until translucent. Add the chopped tomato and cook until soft.

4. Add Ground Meat: Place the ground meat into the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Break it up using a spatula or spoon, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.

5. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the meat and vegetable mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.

6. Incorporate the Tomato Sauce: Once the meat is done, stir in the tomato sauce or paste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, which will help meld the flavors together.

7. Combine with Macaroni: Gently mix the drained macaroni into the pan of meat sauce, ensuring each piece of pasta is thoroughly coated.

8. Final Touch: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before removing from heat.

9. Serve: Transfer to individual plates or a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Tips

• Substitutions: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary adjustments.
• Enhance Flavor: Add garlic or Italian seasoning for a greater depth of flavor.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbs: 55 g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute ground meat with a plant-based option or lentils.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes or jalapeños for added heat.
• Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers or spinach for a nutritional boost.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh side salad and garlic bread.
• A sprinkle of parmesan cheese complements the dish beautifully.
• Serve with a glass of red wine for an elegant touch.

Best Places

1. Noodle Cafe - Offers a variety of pasta dishes in a cozy setting. Location: 123 Pasta Lane, Rome, Italy.

2. The Macaroni Hub - Known for its innovative twists on traditional macaroni dishes. Location: 45 Gourmet Ave, New York City, USA.

3. La Bella Italia - Authentic Italian flavors in a warm atmosphere. Location: 10 Olive Street, Florence, Italy.

4. Napoli's Delight - A family-friendly spot with excellent reviews. Location: 78 Vesuvius Blvd, Naples, Italy.

5. The Spaghetti House - A charming eatery with a wide selection of sauces. Location: 58 Vine Road, London, UK.

6. Gusto's Bistro - Famed for its rich sauces and homemade pastas. Location: 22 Mediterranean Drive, Sydney, Australia.

7. Pasta Palace - Offers a gourmet dining experience with authentic recipes. Location: 39 Caprini Ave, Toronto, Canada.

8. The Italian Oven - A casual dining place with a focus on fresh ingredients. Location: 44 Tuscany St, Boston, USA.

9. Cucina De Mamma - Traditional recipes handed down through generations. Location: 25 Palermo Lane, Chicago, USA.

10. Ristorante Primavera - Elegant dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Location: 67 Verona Square, Venice, Italy.