Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 500g (1 lb) beef mince / ground beef
- 2 tsp Italian herbs
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 400g (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 1/2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups (1 L) chicken stock/broth, low sodium
- 350g (12 oz) fusilli, penne, elbow macaroni or other short pasta
- 3/4 cups thickened / heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated (for serving)
- Parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté: Heat the olive oil on high heat in a large heavy-based pot. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 1 1/2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Cook beef & seasonings: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks, until no pink remains. Stir in the Italian herbs and cook for 30 seconds. Then add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to remove its raw flavor.
- All in: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together, then add the pasta directly into the pot.
- Cook 15 min: Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cook for 15 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes, increasing frequency near the end to prevent the pasta from sticking to the base. Cook until the pasta is just tender.
- Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. The sauce will remain quite saucy, which is desired because the pasta absorbs the liquid quickly.
- Serve: Remove the pot from the stove, give everything a good stir, then serve in bowls. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Italian herbs typically include a mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Use dried or fresh as preferred.
- Use low sodium chicken stock to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or elbow macaroni works well as it holds the sauce nicely.
- Stirring regularly prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian