This penne with Italian meat sauce has become a go-to dinner at our house. Not only is it delicious, but also it’s great for leftovers.

How to Make an Easy Italian Meat Sauce with Pasta

I like all types of pasta. But ever since I’ve had to be gluten-free, I’m somewhat limited in what I can use.

For this dinner, I used ground beef. However, you can also use ground turkey or sausage if you prefer.

After several failed attempts at making my own gluten-free pasta, I’ve resorted to purchasing what I can find. However, as soon as I figure out a way to make it, I’ll post the recipe here.

There are as many ways to make Italian meat sauce as there are cooks. Some require quite a few ingredients and hours of hard work in the kitchen.

My version of any recipe is typically one that involves shortcuts in the kitchen. Although I love to cook, I don’t want to stand in front of the stove all day.

This pasta dish is delightfully easy as well as delicious. When you finish cooking it, you’ll be able to serve a meal you can be proud of.

Simply add a side salad and some bread for a delicious dinner or lunch.

Penne with Italian Meat Sauce Ingredients

I have used jars of marinara sauce many times. However, it’s not necessary if you have tomato sauce and Italian seasoning.

You’ll need a pound of ground beef, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, tomato sauce, pasta, water, and Italian seasoning. If you like mushrooms, you can add those too.

You’ll also need some water for the pasta to absorb.

I don’t use much water since I like a thick gravy. If you want a thinner gravy, simply add more water.

You can also vary the amount of pasta you add. If you prefer more penne, add it. Just make sure you increase the amount of water.

For exact measurements of each ingredient and full directions, go to the recipe card at the bottom of the page. You can even print out the card by using the “print” button.

How to Make Penne with Italian Meat Sauce

First, in a large saucepan, brown the ground beef. Drain it and return the meat to the pot.

Although you can finish this delicious dish off in the oven, I didn’t do that this time. That’s because I wanted to keep it as simple as possible.

Plus I didn’t want a bunch of extra dishes, pots, and pans to wash. I think it’s just as good this way.

Next, add the onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook it until the onion is translucent. Now it’s ready for the rest of the ingredients.

Pour the tomato sauce into the pot. Then add the water and Italian seasoning.

If you want mushrooms, also add those now. You can use either fresh or canned mushrooms, as long as they’re sliced.

Simmer the sauce for 15 minutes. If you want to simmer it longer, that’s fine. However, make sure you have enough water for the pasta to absorb.

Then add the pasta to the sauce and continue to simmer until the pasta is tender but still firm.

Serve this delicious food hot. If you like cheese, add it after it’s on the plate.

More Recipes

We typically have a salad with our pasta dishes. The ones we enjoy are this delicious Greek olive and feta salad or this nutrition-packed broccoli slaw.

A dessert is always good to have with this dinner, so try this mint chocolate chip ice cream. You might also enjoy these key lime cookies from Miz Helen’s Country Cottage.

See this recipe shared at Meal Plan Monday, Full Plate Thursday, and Weekend Potluck.

Please feel free to share!