If you’re looking for a classic, comforting pasta dish that combines rich flavors and a hearty sauce, then Tagliatelle with Hearty Meat and Tomato Sauce is the perfect choice. This dish brings together minced meat, chopped tomatoes, and a variety of herbs, creating a flavor-packed sauce that pairs beautifully with tagliatelle pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Read on to discover how you can easily create this delicious dish.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 Onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves of Garlic (minced)
- 400 grams of Minced Meat
- 1 Bell Pepper (diced)
- 400 grams of Chopped Tomatoes (about 2 cups)
- ½ cup of Water (120 ml)
- 1 teaspoon of Herbs de Provence (or to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of Paprika
- Black Pepper (to taste)
For the Pasta:
- 250 grams of Tagliatelle Pasta (about 2 cups)
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pan, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Add the minced meat to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Allow it to develop a slight crust for extra flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in the diced bell pepper and chopped tomatoes. Add ½ cup of water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with Herbs de Provence, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the tagliatelle pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, toss the cooked tagliatelle pasta with the meat sauce until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated cheese or fresh herbs.
Cooking Tips
- Browning the Meat: For extra flavor, brown the meat until it forms a slight crust. This step enhances the overall richness of the sauce.
- Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Tomato Paste: For a deeper tomato flavor, consider adding a spoonful of tomato paste to the sauce while it simmers.
- Pasta Texture: Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture, as it holds up better when mixed with the sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
This hearty dish isn’t just flavorful; it’s packed with essential nutrients:
- Minced Meat: Provides a good source of protein, iron, and B-vitamins.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which promotes heart health.
- Onions and Garlic: Offer immune-boosting compounds, along with an extra burst of flavor that complements the meat sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- For Dinner: Enjoy this dish as a satisfying dinner option, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or a cozy family meal.
- Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread to scoop up any leftover sauce.
- Add a Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will add freshness and balance to the richness of the pasta.
- Extra Kick: For a little extra heat, drizzle with some chili oil or add red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage
- Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, store the pasta and sauce in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store the sauce separately from the pasta in an airtight container for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, if you don’t have tagliatelle, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the minced meat with lentils, tofu, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. The sauce will still be rich and flavorful without the meat.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat, try incorporating chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce, or drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish. Adjust the spice level based on your preference.
Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots to the sauce for added texture and nutrition. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic before adding the meat.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and check the labels on your seasoning blends and tomato products to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tagliatelle with Hearty Meat and Tomato Sauce is a satisfying and versatile dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will surely impress with its rich and savory sauce. Packed with nutrients and adaptable to different dietary needs, it’s a meal that everyone can enjoy. Give it a try and experience the true comfort of this classic pasta dish.