8ouncespastapenne, spaghetti, or your favorite shape
1tablespoonolive oil
1poundlean ground beef
1/2sweet onionfinely chopped
2clovesgarlicminced
1 1/2teaspoonsItalian seasoning
1/2cupbeef or vegetable stock
2tablespoonstomato paste
Saltto taste
Freshly ground black pepperto taste
1cupshredded Parmesan cheese
1tablespoonfresh parsleychopped
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef:In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary.
Cook the Aromatics:Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Build the Sauce:Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly. Pour in the stock and stir well to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Add Cheese and Garnish:Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining Parmesan and fresh parsley.