Easy Mince and Pasta – A Simple, Hearty Weeknight Dinner

Introduction

Easy Mince and Pasta is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table — quick, satisfying, and made with everyday ingredients. This recipe is a weeknight staple across many households, blending seasoned ground beef (mince) with a savory tomato-based sauce, tossed through your favorite pasta.

Whether you’re low on time or feeding a crowd, this dish delivers comfort and flavor without fuss. Think of it as a shortcut to bolognese-style pasta, minus the slow simmer but full of that rich, meaty taste. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and endlessly customizable.

From busy evenings to meal prep Sundays, this recipe belongs in your go-to dinner rotation.

Ingredients Overview

Ground Beef (Mince)

• Use lean beef mince (85–90%) for a good balance of flavor and fat.

• Browning the meat well is key for a rich, hearty flavor.

• Optional: substitute with ground turkey, lamb, chicken, or plant-based mince.

Pasta

• Choose penne, rigatoni, rotini, or spaghetti — anything that holds sauce well.

• Cook al dente and reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce later.

Onion and Garlic

• The aromatic foundation of the sauce.

• Use 1 chopped onion and 2–3 cloves of garlic for deep flavor.

Tomato Base

• Canned chopped tomatoes or passata (sieved tomatoes) provide the body of the sauce.

• Add 1 tbsp tomato paste for depth and sweetness.

Seasonings

• Simple pantry spices do the trick:

  • Salt and black pepper

  • Dried oregano or Italian seasoning

  • Optional: chili flakes for heat or paprika for smokiness

• Optional: a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to boost umami

Olive Oil

• Used for sautéing the onions and meat.

• Adds richness without overpowering.

Cheese (Optional)

• Grated cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for serving.

• Melts into the hot pasta for an indulgent touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook 300g (10 oz) pasta until al dente.

• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil.

• Add:

  • 1 chopped onion

  • Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.

• Stir in:

  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

  • Cook for 1 more minute.

3. Cook the Mince

• Add 500g (1 lb) ground beef to the pan.

• Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink.

• Season with:

  • Salt and pepper

  • 1 tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs

  • Optional: ½ tsp chili flakes or paprika

4. Add Tomato Ingredients

• Stir in:

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 can (400g / 14 oz) chopped tomatoes or 1½ cups passata

• Optional: Add 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce for flavor depth.

• Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• Add a splash of pasta water if sauce gets too thick.

5. Combine and Serve

• Add cooked pasta directly into the meat sauce.

• Toss everything together until evenly coated.

• If desired, stir in a handful of grated cheese.

• Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serve hot with:

• Extra cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil

• A side of garlic bread or green salad

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream, cream cheese, or ricotta to the sauce.

• Add veggies: Mix in chopped carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.

• Go dairy-free: Skip the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free alternative.

• Low-carb option: Serve the mince over zucchini noodles or roasted cauliflower.

• Boost the sauce: Add a pinch of sugar or balsamic vinegar if your tomatoes are too acidic.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners

• Family meals on a budget

• Meal prepping (makes great leftovers)

• Potluck-style gatherings

Serve with:

• Toasted garlic bread

• Steamed green beans or peas

• A crisp side salad with vinaigrette

• A sprinkle of Parmesan or cheddar on top

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish provides a good balance of:

• Protein from the beef

• Carbohydrates from the pasta

• Healthy fats from olive oil

• Add vegetables to increase fiber and vitamins

Per serving (1 of 4):

• Calories: ~480–520

• Protein: ~28g

• Carbs: ~40g

• Fat: ~22g

• Can be adjusted for low-fat or gluten-free diets

To lighten it:

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta

• Choose extra lean beef or turkey

• Add extra vegetables to stretch the sauce

FAQs

Q1: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A1: Yes, use about 5–6 ripe tomatoes, diced. Simmer longer to allow them to break down.

Q2: How long will this keep in the fridge?
A2: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.

Q3: Can I freeze mince and pasta?
A3: Yes, but pasta can get soft when frozen. For best results, freeze the meat sauce only and boil fresh pasta when serving.

Q4: What pasta shapes work best?
A4: Penne, fusilli, rotini, and spaghetti all hold the sauce well. Use what you have on hand.

Q5: Can I make it vegetarian?
A5: Definitely. Use lentils, mushrooms, or meatless mince as a plant-based alternative.

Q6: Is this dish spicy?
A6: Only if you add chili flakes or hot paprika. Otherwise, it’s mild and kid-friendly.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?
A7: Yes! This recipe scales up well — just use a large pot and adjust seasoning as needed

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