This Beef Tomato Pasta Sauce with ‘Nduja is a wonderful addition to your cooking repertoire! Imagine the satisfying aroma of a rich tomato sauce simmering away, with the spicy kick of ‘nduja blending seamlessly with juicy, browned meat. It brings a delightful Mediterranean twist to a classic dish and as your spoon glides through the hearty sauce, you’ll find it clinging lovingly to each piece of pasta. This recipe not only allows you to enjoy a simple yet sophisticated meal, but it also fuels the kitchen conversations filled with laughter and tasty bites. Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, the vibrant flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
Why This Recipe Works
Beef Tomato Pasta Sauce with ‘Nduja combines rich flavors and textures, bringing together the savory depth of ground beef with the bold, spicy kick of ‘nduja. This recipe creates a robust sauce that clings perfectly to pasta, ensuring every bite is a delight. The balance of ingredients provides a satisfying dish that is never bland. Furthermore, the simple cooking method means you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Tomato Pasta Sauce with ‘Nduja
This dish is a flavorful approach to comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The unique infusion of ‘nduja gives a gourmet twist while still being simple enough for any home cook to master. Each bowl delivers a warm hug, with the combination of classic Italian flavors and a touch of heat making it hard to resist. Plus, the recipe is flexible enough to cater to your taste buds, allowing adjustments to spice levels and ingredient substitutions. This sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 18 oz canned crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 1-2 tbsp ‘nduja paste
- Salt to taste
- 1 lb paccheri pasta
Cooking Method
Heat the Oil
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. The oil will sizzle as you add the beef, creating a delicious foundation for the sauce.
Brown the Beef
Next, add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan, cooking until it is browned and no longer pink inside. Stir occasionally to break it up, ensuring even cooking. The goal is to achieve that golden-brown color, which adds depth to the flavor profile.
Add Garlic and Herbs
Once the beef is browned to perfection, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. Mixing these aromatics together deepens the flavors and fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering scent.
Pour in the Tomatoes
Now, incorporate 18 ounces of canned crushed tomatoes or tomato passata into the mixture. The tomatoes will create a rich base for your sauce, complementing the meat beautifully.
Introduce the ‘Nduja
Add 1-2 tablespoons of ‘nduja paste, depending on your spice preference. Stir thoroughly to make sure the ‘nduja infuses its unique flavor into the sauce. The result will be a tantalizing blend of heat and richness.
Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. As it simmers, season with salt to taste. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Feel free to taste and adjust as you go!
Cook the Pasta
As the sauce simmers, cook 1 pound of paccheri pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot. Using a big pot of salted water will help give the pasta the right texture. Once cooked, be sure to reserve a bit of pasta water for later.
Combine and Serve
When the pasta is ready, drain it and toss it with the simmering sauce until well coated. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Serve hot and enjoy a steaming bowl that’s sure to impress!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Beef Tomato Pasta Sauce with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. This creates a wholesome meal that satisfies every craving. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ‘nduja for a deeper flavor impact. It makes a noticeable difference!
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of ‘nduja to your liking. Start with less if you’re unsure.
- Simmer the sauce longer if time permits, as this enhances the overall flavor profile.
Variations
Feel free to experiment! Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You might also try adding vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to enhance the nutrition and add color.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This sauce freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to bring back some moisture.
Pairing Ideas
This Beef Tomato Pasta Sauce pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti. The wine complements the spices and richness of the sauce perfectly, making each bite even more enjoyable.
FAQs
What is ‘nduja?
‘Nduja is a spicy, spreadable pork sausage from Italy, known for its rich flavor and heat. It adds a unique kick to any dish!
Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! While paccheri works wonderfully, any pasta shape will do. Rigatoni, penne, or even spaghetti can handle the sauce beautifully.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a fiery touch, simply increase the amount of ‘nduja or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s adaptable! You can adjust the ‘nduja to a milder level as needed, making it perfect for younger taste buds.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Certainly! This sauce tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Elevate your pasta night with this Beef Tomato Pasta Sauce with ‘Nduja recipe. It’s a vibrant, hearty dish that fills the hungry and warms the soul. The combination of flavorful ingredients creates a symphony of taste that you’ll want to return to time and time again. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe simplifies gourmet cooking, making it accessible for home chefs. Enjoy!
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Beef Tomato Pasta Sauce with ‘Nduja
This dish offers a flavorful twist on comfort food, blending savory beef with the spicy essence of ‘nduja. Ideal for both everyday meals and special gatherings, it’s a satisfying dish that pleases all palates.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 18 oz canned crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 1–2 tbsp ‘nduja paste
- Salt to taste
- 1 lb paccheri pasta
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
- Add minced garlic, dried basil, and oregano; mix well.
- Stir in canned crushed tomatoes or tomato passata.
- Incorporate ‘nduja paste and mix thoroughly.
- Simmer the sauce for 15 minutes, seasoning with salt.
- Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions.
- Combine cooked pasta with sauce and serve hot.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Use high-quality ‘nduja for a deeper flavor.
Adjust the amount of ‘nduja to control spice level.
Simmer the sauce longer for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 80
