Spicy Family Chili Pasta (Print Version)

Hearty pasta tossed with chili-spiced beef, peppers, and parmesan for cozy, flavorful dinners.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 400 grams (14 oz) penne or rigatoni

→ Sauce Base

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 yellow bell pepper, diced

→ Protein

07 - 400 grams (14 oz) ground beef or vegetarian mince

→ Tomatoes & Liquid

08 - 1 can (400 grams/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
09 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
10 - 100 ml (⅓ cup plus 1 tbsp) vegetable or beef broth

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1–2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
12 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - ½ teaspoon dried oregano
14 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin
15 - 1 teaspoon salt
16 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
17 - ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

→ Finishing Touches

18 - 60 grams (2 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
19 - Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

# Method:

01 - Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup (120 ml) of the pasta water.
02 - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
03 - Stir in the diced red and yellow bell peppers and sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
04 - Add the ground beef or vegetarian mince to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, approximately 5–7 minutes.
05 - Incorporate tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and broth into the skillet. Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
06 - Allow the sauce to simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a thickened consistency. Adjust seasonings to your preference.
07 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to ensure it is evenly coated. If a looser consistency is desired, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time.
08 - Sprinkle the finished dish with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses everyday ingredients you likely already have
  • Versatile recipe that works with meat or vegetarian options
  • Adjustable spice level to suit all family members
02 -
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
  • The recipe doubles easily for larger gatherings or meal prep
  • Adding a splash of red wine to the sauce creates remarkable depth
03 -
  • Always reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy liquid is essential for creating a silky sauce that perfectly coats each piece of pasta.
  • When cooking the aromatics, pay attention to the sound they make in the pan. The sizzle should be gentle and consistent, not aggressive or silent. This indicates the perfect temperature for developing flavor without burning.
  • Lastly, allow the pasta to rest for 2 3 minutes after combining with the sauce before serving. This brief pause allows the pasta to absorb some sauce and flavors to fully integrate, resulting in a more cohesive and satisfying dish that will have your family asking for seconds.
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