A large skillet with filled with a vibrant penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, and basil.

Hearty Penne Pasta

Ingredients 

  • 1 can Beef 24 ounces, drained
  • 1 package Penne Pasta 12 ounces
  • 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
  • ½ cup Onion Diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 teaspoons Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1 cup Milk Reduced fat
  • 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Sliced in half; or 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • Ground Black Pepper To taste
  • Parmesan Cheese Optional; for serving

Equipment

  • Stovetop
  • Large Skillet
  • Large Pot

Instructions

  • In a large pot, cook the package of penne pasta according to package instructions so that it is al dente.
  • Heat oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add in the onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté a minute more. Add in the beef and pepper flakes, and use two forks to shred the beef.
  • Stir in tomatoes, milk, and salt, and continue to simmer over medium or medium-low heat until the mixture thickens, around 8 minutes. Taste and add additional salt or pepper if needed.
  • Stir the cooked pasta into the sauce and heat thoroughly. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of shredded parmesan, if using.

Notes

  • If you like, add in 2 cups of baby spinach with the tomatoes and milk for a nutritional boost.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Hearty Penne Pasta
Amount per Serving
Calories
 
331
Calories from Fat 180
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
20
g
31
%
Saturated Fat
 
7
g
44
%
Trans Fat
 
1
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
9
g
Cholesterol
 
64
mg
21
%
Sodium
 
227
mg
10
%
Potassium
 
404
mg
12
%
Carbohydrates
 
18
g
6
%
Fiber
 
1
g
4
%
Sugar
 
3
g
3
%
Protein
 
19
g
38
%
Vitamin A
 
380
IU
8
%
Vitamin C
 
10
mg
12
%
Calcium
 
66
mg
7
%
Iron
 
3
mg
17
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Keyword Beef, Canned Beef, Cherry Tomato, Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic, Garlic Cloves, Milk, Olive Oil, Onion, Pasta, Penne Pasta, Red Pepper Flakes