ITALIAN DRUNKEN NOODELS

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ITALIAN DRUNKEN NOODELS

Introduction

This Hearty Beef and Tomato Pasta Skillet is a classic comfort food that brings together rich flavors and textures in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish features tender pasta coated in a savory tomato-based sauce, combined with ground beef and herbs. The recipe is easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and offers a balanced meal in every bite.

History

Pasta dishes like this one have deep roots in Italian-American cuisine, where the combination of meat, tomatoes, and pasta creates a comforting, filling meal. Historically, this type of recipe became popular in the United States as immigrants adapted traditional Italian pasta dishes to the ingredients readily available. Ground beef and canned tomatoes were often used due to their affordability and availability, making it a favorite among many American families.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) wide pasta noodles (such as pappardelle or egg noodles)
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 large onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Mix in the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Methods

  • Browning the Beef: Browning the beef properly adds depth to the flavor. Make sure to use a hot skillet and do not overcrowd the pan.
  • Layering Flavors: The use of both diced tomatoes and tomato paste provides a rich tomato base with added texture and concentration.
  • Simmering for Flavor: Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances the flavors and thickens the sauce naturally.
  • Finishing with Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley provide a bright, fresh finish to the dish.

Hearty Beef and Tomato Pasta Skillet:

Benefits of Hearty Beef and Tomato Pasta Skillet

  1. High in Protein: The ground beef in this recipe is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing muscle tissues, supporting the immune system, and providing sustained energy throughout the day.
  2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: This dish includes tomatoes, which are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and potassium. Vitamin A supports eye health, vitamin C boosts the immune system, and potassium helps regulate blood pressure.
  3. Heart-Healthy Lycopene: Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Cooking tomatoes increases the bioavailability of lycopene, making it easier for the body to absorb.
  4. Complex Carbohydrates for Energy: The pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly, providing a steady release of energy. This makes the dish perfect for fueling daily activities or workouts.
  5. Supports Digestive Health: The vegetables and tomatoes in the recipe add fiber to the dish, which is crucial for maintaining digestive health, preventing constipation, and promoting a healthy gut.
  6. Good Source of Iron: Ground beef is rich in iron, an essential mineral that helps transport oxygen in the blood. Consuming iron-rich foods can help prevent anemia and improve overall energy levels.
  7. Versatility and Customization: This dish is highly versatile and can be easily customized with additional vegetables, different herbs, or even a leaner meat option, such as ground turkey, making it adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences.
  8. Easy to Prepare and Budget-Friendly: This recipe is easy to make with simple, affordable ingredients. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Overall, the Hearty Beef and Tomato Pasta Skillet is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a well-rounded combination of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It’s a wholesome, comforting meal that supports a balanced diet and can be easily modified to fit various health goals or preferences.

  1. High in Protein: This dish provides a substantial amount of protein from the ground beef, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
  2. Rich in Carbohydrates: The pasta serves as a great source of carbohydrates, which is the body’s primary energy source.
  3. Tomato Health Benefits: Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C and are a good source of antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals.
  4. Balanced Meal: This recipe offers a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, making it a wholesome and filling meal.

Hearty Beef and Tomato Pasta Skillet (assuming the recipe makes about 6 servings)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Potassium: 700mg
  • Vitamin A: 20% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Vitamin C: 25% of the DV
  • Calcium: 8% of the DV
  • Iron: 20% of the DV

Key Nutrients and Their Benefits

  • Protein: Supports muscle repair and growth.
  • Fiber: Aids digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
  • Iron: Essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
  • Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
  • Vitamins A and C: Support immune function and skin health.

These values may vary slightly based on the specific brands of ingredients used, portion sizes, and any modifications made to the recipe. If you have specific dietary needs or goals, adjusting ingredients or using lower-fat or lower-sodium options can help tailor the nutritional content to your preferences.

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 8g

Conclusion

The Hearty Beef and Tomato Pasta Skillet is a versatile and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by many. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or making it ahead for a busy week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish is ideal for pasta lovers who enjoy robust flavors. It’s quick to make, and the one-pan preparation means less clean-up. Plus, the combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta provides comfort and nostalgia in every bite, making it a favorite among all ages.

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste or add your favorite vegetables or herbs!

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