Are you in need of a quick and easy meal for busy days? Look no further than Penne with Meat Sauce. With 770 calories per serving, this dish is guaranteed to keep you satisfied. Whether you're a college student or a working parent, Penne with Meat Sauce is the perfect recipe to add to your rotation.

Not only is Penne with Meat Sauce filling, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Each serving contains 33 grams of protein and 77 grams of carbohydrates. The tomato sauce provides vitamin C and lycopene, while the ground beef adds iron and zinc to the dish.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about making Penne with Meat Sauce. From the required ingredients to the benefits of the dish, we've got you covered.

How to make Penne with Meat Sauce.

Start by heating a large pot of water over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add salt and the penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain the cooked pasta and toss it with the meat sauce. Serve hot.

Nutritional Value of Penne with Meat Sauce.

A serving of Penne with Meat Sauce contains 770 calories, 33 grams of protein, and 77 grams of carbohydrates. The dish also provides 4 grams of fiber and 19 grams of fat. The tomato sauce in Penne with Meat Sauce is a great source of vitamin C and lycopene. Vitamin C helps boost your immune system, while lycopene has antioxidant properties that help protect against cancer and heart disease. The ground beef in Penne with Meat Sauce is an excellent source of iron and zinc. Iron helps transport oxygen throughout your body, while zinc is important for immune function and wound healing.

The Ingredients You Need for Penne with Meat Sauce.

To make Penne with Meat Sauce, you'll need 8 ounces of penne pasta, 1 pound of ground beef, 1 can of tomato sauce, 2 cloves of garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. You may also choose to add additional seasonings, such as oregano, basil, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor of the dish. Feel free to modify the recipe to suit your tastes. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat sauce.

Why Penne with Meat Sauce is a Great Meal for Busy Days.

Penne with Meat Sauce is a quick and easy meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. It requires few ingredients and is budget-friendly. This dish is also versatile and can be served for lunch or dinner. It can be paired with a salad or breadsticks for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a great option for meal prepping or batch cooking.

How Long Does it Take to Make Penne with Meat Sauce?

Penne with Meat Sauce can be made in under 30 minutes. It takes about 10 minutes to cook the pasta and 15-20 minutes to make the meat sauce. Prep time is minimal, as you only need to chop garlic and brown the ground beef. Overall, Penne with Meat Sauce is a great option for a quick and easy meal.

The Benefits of Eating Penne with Meat Sauce.

Penne with Meat Sauce is a rich source of protein, providing 33 grams per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, such as muscle and bone. The dish is also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide energy to the body. The addition of garlic and tomato sauce adds antioxidants to the dish. Eating Penne with Meat Sauce can help keep you full and satisfied, making it a great option for weight management.

How to Modify Penne with Meat Sauce to Suit Your Tastes.

Feel free to experiment with the recipe and add your own twist. You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the dish. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Add cheese such as parmesan or ricotta for a creamy twist on the traditional recipe.

How to Store Leftover Penne with Meat Sauce.

To store leftover Penne with Meat Sauce, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. Leftover Penne with Meat Sauce makes a great option for meal prepping or batch cooking, as it can be easily reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.

How to Reheat Penne with Meat Sauce.

To reheat Penne with Meat Sauce, transfer the desired amount to a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the dish on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan and heat over low-medium heat until heated through. Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking. Leftover Penne with Meat Sauce can be easily reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Penne with Meat Sauce.

Use a large pot of salted water to cook the pasta. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking. Make sure to drain the cooked pasta well to prevent the dish from becoming watery. Serve Penne with Meat Sauce with a garnish of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for added freshness and flavor.