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### **A Recipe for Busy Nights: Simple, Wholesome, and Satisfying**
We all have those moments when we come home after a long day at work, school, or running errands, and the last thing we want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. It’s during these moments that we turn to family recipes – those tried and true dishes that are quick, reliable, and oh so comforting. This particular recipe was my mom’s solution for busy nights, and over the years, it has become something I treasure and prepare whenever I’m craving something familiar and comforting.
In this article, I’ll share the recipe for this wonderful family dish, explain why it’s such a beloved meal, and offer tips on how you can make it your own.
### **The Essence of the Classic Dish**
So what exactly makes this dish so special? Is it the simplicity of its ingredients? The ease with which it comes together? Or is it the nostalgia that comes with every bite? In truth, it’s a combination of all these factors that make this recipe so unforgettable. It’s one of those dishes that’s versatile, allowing you to modify it based on what you have available at home. But there’s something so comforting about sticking to the traditional recipe, just the way it was made when I was growing up.
The beauty of this dish is that it incorporates basic ingredients that are usually found in most households. It requires minimal preparation time and can be made in under an hour. Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, this recipe is approachable and foolproof. The flavors are savory and satisfying, with just the right balance of textures that makes each bite comforting and soul-satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb (450g) of ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 can of tomato sauce (8 oz)
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– 2 cups of cooked pasta (any shape you prefer)
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for sautéing
### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### 1. **Prepare the Ingredients**
Start by gathering all the ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient. Cook your pasta of choice according to the package instructions, ensuring it is al dente (a little firm). While the pasta is cooking, prepare the rest of the ingredients.
#### 2. **Sauté the Ground Meat and Vegetables**
In a large skillet or pan, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté it for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and the dried oregano and basil. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add the red pepper flakes at this stage.
#### 3. **Add the Tomatoes and Simmer**
Once the meat is browned and fully cooked, pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the tomato sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring that the meat is well-coated in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken, which should take about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
#### 4. **Combine with the Pasta**
Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the meat sauce. Stir everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Let the mixture cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up some of the sauce and heat through.
#### 5. **Add the Cheese**
At this point, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for a few minutes, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.
#### 6. **Serve and Enjoy**
Once the cheese has melted and the dish is bubbly, it’s ready to serve. Scoop generous portions of this cheesy, comforting pasta onto plates and enjoy! The combination of rich tomato sauce, savory ground meat, and melty cheese creates the perfect comfort dish. It’s filling, satisfying, and just what you need after a long day.
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