Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef

This simple yet flavorful dish features ground beef, noodles, and a delicious sauce made with tomatoes, peppers, and spices. It’s an easy, one-pan dinner that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups uncooked egg noodles (or any short pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

• Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

1. Add the Seasonings:

• Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder (if using), and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their flavors.

1. Add Tomatoes and Broth:

• Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

1. Add the Noodles:

• Stir in the uncooked egg noodles, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Cover the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the liquid. If needed, add a bit more broth or water as the noodles cook.

1. Return the Beef:

• Once the noodles are cooked, return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

1. Season and Serve:

• Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Customize the Heat: Add more chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Broth Substitution: If you don’t have beef broth on hand, water or chicken broth will also work, though beef broth enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced zucchini, corn, or peas to make the dish even heartier.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a Salad: Pair this dish with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef recipe is a crowd-pleasing, one-pan dish that’s both flavorful and comforting. With tender noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a go-to recipe for any busy night. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different veggies or spices!