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## **Instructions**
### **1. Cook the Pasta**
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
### **2. Prepare the Beef**
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or beef strips) and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking the beef into smaller pieces if using ground beef. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the beef and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the beef aside.
### **3. Make the Basil Pesto**
While the beef is cooking, prepare the basil pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice (if using). Pulse until the mixture forms a smooth paste. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
If the pesto seems too thick, you can add a little more olive oil or a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
### **4. Combine the Pasta, Beef, and Pesto**
In the large skillet with the cooked beef, add the drained pasta and toss to combine. Pour the fresh basil pesto over the pasta and beef mixture, and toss until everything is evenly coated. If needed, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to help the pesto coat the pasta more easily.
### **5. Serve and Garnish**
Once everything is combined, transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor. Serve immediately while hot!
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## **Tips for Making the Perfect Pasta with Beef and Basil Pesto**
🌿 **Fresh Pesto vs. Store-Bought** – While store-bought pesto can work in a pinch, fresh basil pesto made from scratch takes this dish to a whole new level. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and nuts creates a flavor profile that perfectly complements the beef.
🍝 **Pasta Choices** – You can use any pasta you prefer, but thicker pasta like penne or rigatoni will hold the pesto and beef well. If you use spaghetti, be sure to toss thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly.
🍳 **Cooking Beef Tips** – For tender beef strips, make sure not to overcook them. Aim for a nice brown sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
🥄 **Adjust the Pesto Consistency** – If the pesto seems too thick, adding a little pasta water can help loosen it and create a creamier sauce.
🍋 **Zing it Up** – A touch of lemon juice in the pesto adds a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens the dish and balances the richness of the beef.
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## **Why This Pasta is a Must-Try**
This **Delicious Pasta with Beef and Basil Pesto** is a fantastic combination of savory, rich flavors with a vibrant, herbaceous kick. The tender beef perfectly complements the fragrant pesto, while the pasta serves as the perfect base to hold everything together. The best part is that this dish is as easy to make as it is impressive, making it the perfect meal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Not only does this dish provide a satisfying and comforting meal, but it also delivers the freshness and brightness of basil pesto, which takes the flavor profile to a new height. Plus, it’s customizable, so feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, nuts, or even protein (chicken or turkey, anyone?).
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## **Final Thoughts**
If you love pasta, pesto, and beef, then this **Delicious Pasta with Beef and Basil Pesto** is your new go-to recipe. It’s easy, quick, and full of flavor—making it perfect for busy nights or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious, comforting meal.
What do you think of this flavor-packed pasta dish? Let me know how it turns out or if you have any special twists to add! 😊
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