Hearty Shrimp and Beef Pasta: The Perfect Weeknight Dinner!

Hearty Shrimp and Beef Pasta: The Perfect Weeknight Dinner!

Ready to elevate your dinner game? This Hearty Shrimp and Beef Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—packed with juicy shrimp, savory beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s quick, easy to make, and perfect for those busy nights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast. Let’s get cooking!


Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor:

For the Pasta:

  • 10 oz (300g) spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Water for boiling

For the Protein-Packed Sauce:

  • 1/2 lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan (optional)


How to Make Shrimp and Beef Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, as per package instructions.
  2. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

  1. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Brown the Beef

  1. In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula.
  2. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.

4. Build the Sauce

  1. Heat the remaining olive oil in the skillet. Sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the chopped bell pepper and cook until softened.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, crushed red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Combine and Finish

  1. Return the shrimp and beef to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
  2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing until well combined. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency, if needed.

6. Garnish and Serve

  1. Transfer the pasta to plates or bowls.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • A Crowd-Pleaser: Perfectly seasoned shrimp and beef make this dish a hit for any occasion.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
  • Balanced and Hearty: Combines protein, carbs, and vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Tips for a Perfect Shrimp and Beef Pasta

  1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and herbs for the best flavor.
  2. Spice It Up: Add chili flakes for a kick of heat, or skip them if you prefer a milder dish.
  3. Customize Your Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to restore the sauce’s consistency.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Of course! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese garnish for a dairy-free version.


Serving Ideas

Pair your Shrimp and Beef Pasta with these sides for a complete meal:

  • A side of garlic bread for dipping.
  • A fresh Caesar salad to balance the richness.
  • A glass of your favorite red wine for a touch of indulgence.

Conclusion

This Hearty Shrimp and Beef Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, date night, or simply treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Try it tonight and savor every bite!

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