Ground Beef and Broccoli Pasta: A Quick and Delicious Recipe

ByEmma

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Ground Beef and Broccoli Pasta recipe. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. This dish combines the rich taste of ground beef with the vibrant crunch of broccoli, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. Here’s how to make it!

Contents

Ingredients

To make this delicious dish, you will need:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 8 ounces short pasta (like macaroni or penne)
  • 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable/beef broth)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
  • 12 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef and Broccoli Pasta:

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large Dutch oven or pasta pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms, sautéing for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
  2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it is no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add Pasta and Broth: Sprinkle in the dry pasta, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Ensure that the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
  5. Incorporate Broccoli and Tomatoes: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and add broccoli florets, halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, cover again, and let it steam in the residual heat for another 5 minutes.
  6. Finish with Herbs and Cheese: After steaming, stir in fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese to taste. Mix well before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Choose Your Pasta Wisely: Short pasta varieties like macaroni or penne work best because they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
  • Broccoli Cooking Time: To maintain a vibrant green color and crisp texture, avoid overcooking the broccoli. It should be tender yet still firm when added.
  • Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce before serving.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Broccoli Pasta is not only a fantastic weeknight dinner option but also a great way to sneak in some vegetables. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. Enjoy your delicious creation!

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