Pasta with Ground Meat, Carrots, and Fresh Herbs

### Instructions

1. **Cook the Pasta**
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water to add later if needed.

2. **Prepare the Ground Meat and Vegetables**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove any excess fat from the pan if necessary.

3. **Cook the Vegetables**
Add the chopped onions, garlic, and diced carrots to the pan with the ground meat. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the carrots are softened and the onions are translucent. The garlic should be fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.

4. **Add the Broth and Seasonings**
Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and add the dried oregano and thyme. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld.

5. **Combine with Pasta**
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the meat and vegetable mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky sauce.

6. **Finish with Fresh Herbs and Parmesan**
Stir in the fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, salty finish.

7. **Serve**
Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan if you like. This dish is perfect as a main course and pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

### Tips for a Perfect Pasta with Ground Meat, Carrots, and Fresh Herbs
– **Add Vegetables**: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the carrots and onions for a complete, colorful dish.
– **Meat Variations**: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a leaner option, or try ground lamb for a more robust flavor.
– **Spice It Up**: For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
– **Make It Ahead**: This dish stores well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
– **Herb Substitutions**: If you don’t have fresh basil or parsley on hand, thyme, rosemary, or sage can also work well in this recipe. Use what’s fresh and available.

### Why This Dish Is Perfect for Any Occasion
*Pasta with Ground Meat, Carrots, and Fresh Herbs* is a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. It’s a wonderful choice for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it ideal for novice cooks or anyone short on time. Yet, the depth of flavor and freshness of the herbs elevate it to a level that’s impressive enough to serve at gatherings with friends and family.

### Conclusion
With its combination of savory meat, sweet carrots, and fragrant herbs, *Pasta with Ground Meat, Carrots, and Fresh Herbs* offers a perfect balance of flavors that will please everyone at the table. It’s simple, comforting, and full of fresh ingredients, making it a versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So, grab your pasta, ground meat, and a handful of herbs, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!