A Classic Comfort: Simple Beef and Pasta

Indulge in the comforting flavors of home with our Simple Beef and Pasta recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this hearty dish combines tender ground beef with flavorful spices and savory beef broth, all served over a bed of delicious egg noodles. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this comforting classic in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

2 cups uncooked egg noodles
1 lb lean ground beef
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Egg Noodles:
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Add Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Season the Beef:
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Thicken the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir until it’s well combined. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Add Beef Broth:
- Slowly pour the beef broth into the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Finish with Cream (Optional):
- If using heavy cream, stir it into the beef mixture until it’s fully incorporated. This will add richness and creaminess to the sauce.
Combine with Noodles:
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Simple Beef and Pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Add Vegetables: Mix in your favorite vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some extra heat.
Cheese Lover’s Twist: Stir in some grated cheese like Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella for a cheesy twist to the dish.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may have a milder flavor than beef, so you may want to adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave and toss with freshly cooked egg noodles when ready to serve.

Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly? A: Yes, Simple Beef and Pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: How can I make a keto-friendly version of this dish? A: To make a keto-friendly version, you can substitute the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. You can also omit the flour and heavy cream and use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or almond flour.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

Substitute egg noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
Omit all-purpose flour and heavy cream, and use a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum or almond flour.
Adjust seasonings to taste and consider adding extra vegetables for added fiber.

Low-Carb Version:

Follow the keto version instructions, adjusting ingredients to fit your specific low-carb dietary needs.
Incorporate low-carb vegetables like cauliflower rice or broccoli florets for added volume and texture.

In conclusion, Simple Beef and Pasta is a timeless dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich and savory flavors, creamy sauce, and tender noodles, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving some classic comfort food, this recipe is a winner. So why wait? Give it a try and enjoy the delicious simplicity of this satisfying dish!