Lazy and Lite Pasta Bolognese Recipe for Effortless Comfort Food

If you want a cozy, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this lazy and lite pasta bolognese is the perfect solution. It combines juicy ground beef, burst cherry tomatoes, and pasta shells that hold every bit of the garlicky sauce. This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you crave comfort food without the fuss.

A bowl of lazy and lite pasta bolognese with melted cheese and red pepper flakes

Ingredients You Will Need

Here’s everything you need to make this simple pasta bolognese:

1. 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)

2. 12 oz medium pasta shells

3. 1 tbsp olive oil

4. ½ onion, finely chopped

5. 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

6. 2–3 cups cherry tomatoes (whole)

7. Salt and black pepper, to taste

8. 1–2 tsp Italian seasoning or fresh basil

9. 2 ladles reserved pasta water

10. Grated cheese (Parmesan or Pecorino)

11. Red pepper flakes, to taste

These ingredients come together quickly and create a sauce that’s rich but light, perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying meal without heaviness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these numbered steps to make your lazy and lite pasta bolognese:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve at least 1 cup of the pasta water.

2. In a large pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and drain any excess fat.

3. Using the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.

4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

5. Add the whole cherry tomatoes to the pan. Season with salt and black pepper, then stir gently. Cover the pan with a lid and let the tomatoes simmer until they burst and create a sauce, about 6 to 8 minutes.

6. Pour in 2 ladles of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir well to combine.

7. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning or fresh basil. Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and mix everything together.

8. Add the cooked pasta shells to the pan and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

9. Sprinkle grated cheese and red pepper flakes on top. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to melt the cheese and blend the flavors.

10. Serve hot and enjoy your effortless comfort food!

Tips for Making the Best Lazy and Lite Pasta Bolognese

• Use fresh cherry tomatoes when possible. They burst beautifully and add a natural sweetness to the sauce.

• Reserve pasta water is key. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling to the pasta shells, making every bite flavorful.

• Adjust seasoning to your taste. If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes. For a fresher taste, use fresh basil instead of dried Italian seasoning.

• Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish light but still juicy. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better when tossed with the sauce.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This pasta bolognese recipe is designed for simplicity and speed without sacrificing flavor. It uses minimal ingredients and one pan for the sauce, which means less cleanup. The cherry tomatoes cook down quickly, creating a fresh, garlicky sauce that feels homemade but takes a fraction of the time traditional bolognese requires.

The pasta shells are perfect for catching the sauce in their curves, so every bite is rich and satisfying. Plus, the grated cheese and red pepper flakes add layers of flavor that make this dish feel special even though it’s so easy to prepare.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta bolognese with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness of the dish. A crusty piece of bread or garlic bread on the side is also a great addition to soak up any leftover sauce.

For a lighter meal, pair it with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus. If you want to make it a bit heartier, add a side of sautéed mushrooms or a small bowl of soup.