Ingredients and Weight:
- 500 grams of dried pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 250 grams of lean beef (e.g., sirloin), ground
- 1 small bunch of basil leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon of chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 5 tablespoons of olive oil
- 50 grams of Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season with salt.
- Prepare the pasta according to package instructions and cook until al dente (firm to the bite).
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan.
- Add the ground beef and cook until no longer red, breaking up any large pieces.
- Add the tomato paste and chili flakes (if using) and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the frying pan with the beef mixture.
- Toss to combine, adding the chopped basil.
- Remove from heat and add the shaved or grated parmesan cheese. Toss gently to incorporate.
- Serve immediately in warmed bowls.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on average values; may vary depending on specific ingredients used)
* Calories: Approx. 600-700 per serving (based on the type of pasta and beef used)
* Fat: Moderate
* Carbohydrates: High
* Protein: High
Dish Characteristics:
- Traditional Italian-American dish, rich in flavor and texture.
- Beef and tomato base provide a hearty, yet simple dish that is perfect for colder weather.
- The addition of basil and parmesan cheese offer a creamy and savory finish.
User Comments:
- "Love the rich flavor of this dish! The perfect blend of salty and creamy." - John Doe, New York
- "The perfect balance of flavors, not too spicy but definitely hearty." - Jane Smith, California
- "Great dish for colder evenings, warms you up from the inside out." - Michael Johnson, Texas
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use lean beef to reduce fat content if desired.
- Adjust chili flakes or omit for a mild dish.
- Make sure to cook the pasta to the desired texture as overcooking can make it mushy.
