Introduction:
This Delicious Pasta with Beef and Basil Pesto is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of sautéed beef with the fresh, herby zing of basil pesto.
The simplicity of the pesto, with its basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, beautifully complements the savory beef, while the pasta provides the perfect vehicle to bring all the flavors together. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite variety)
1 lb ground beef or beef strips
1/2 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (optional, for a burst of color and flavor)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the beef: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Combine the beef and pesto: Once the beef is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the basil pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the beef is evenly coated with the pesto sauce.
Toss with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef and pesto mixture. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Plate the pasta and beef mixture. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Optionally, top with halved cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Description: This dish combines savory ground beef with a rich, aromatic basil pesto sauce, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta. The pesto adds a bright and herby flavor that elevates the beef, while the pasta provides a comforting base. The addition of Parmesan cheese gives it a creamy, salty finish. The freshness of the basil leaves and optional cherry tomatoes makes it both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. Whether you choose beef strips or ground beef, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite.
Tips:
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
If you don’t have basil pesto, you can use store-bought pesto or make your own by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil.
Add a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to make the sauce even richer.
Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper flakes or sautéed mushrooms to the dish.
Variations:
Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, grilled vegetables, or a plant-based protein.
Spicy: Add a tablespoon of red pepper flakes to the beef as it cooks for a spicy kick.
With Tomatoes: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for added sweetness and texture.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in mozzarella pearls or burrata for an extra cheesy experience.
Corrections:
Be sure to properly season the beef with salt and pepper, as it’s easy to overlook this step. The seasoning will help enhance the flavors.
If the pesto is too thick, use more pasta water when mixing it into the beef and pasta to achieve a smooth, cohesive sauce.
Enjoy: Now that your delicious pasta with beef and basil pesto is ready, sit back, relax, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that combines the best of fresh herbs, tender beef, and comforting pasta. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!