ADVERTISEMENT
Introduction:
Whenever a dish stands out in a crowd, you know it's a winner. My friends couldn't help but whisper to me that they were absolutely obsessed with this dish—what started as a casual dinner quickly became the highlight of the evening. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe promises to be a total crowd-pleaser. With flavors that meld perfectly and an irresistible aroma that fills the room, it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground chicken or beef (your choice)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for extra flavor)
1 lb pasta of your choice (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Prepare the sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or saucepan. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
Brown the meat: Add the ground chicken or beef to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until the meat is browned and cooked through.
Build the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine pasta and sauce: Once the sauce is ready, toss in the cooked pasta, stirring to coat the noodles evenly. Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy texture.
Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
ADVERTISEMENT