“This is so good! It’s on regular rotation in my house full of hungry boys.”

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## **Instructions:**

### 1. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until **al dente**. Drain and set aside.

### 2. **Prepare the Meat Mixture:**
– While the pasta is cooking, heat a **large skillet** over medium heat. Add the **ground beef** (or preferred protein) and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
– Add the **chopped onion** and **minced garlic** to the skillet. Sauté for about **2-3 minutes** until softened and fragrant.

### 3. **Add the Sauces and Seasonings:**
– Stir in the **diced tomatoes**, **tomato sauce**, **oregano**, **basil**, and **soy sauce** (if using). Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
– Let the sauce simmer for about **5-7 minutes**, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a creamy sauce, stir in the **cream** at this point.

### 4. **Combine with Pasta:**
– Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is coated in the flavorful meat sauce.

### 5. **Add Cheese:**
– Sprinkle the shredded **cheese** over the pasta mixture. Stir to combine, or cover the skillet and let the cheese melt into the dish, creating a cheesy, gooey goodness.

### 6. **Serve:**
– Once everything is melted and combined, serve the dish hot. Garnish with **fresh parsley** or **basil** for an added burst of color and flavor.

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## **Serving Suggestions:**

🥗 **Pair with a Simple Salad** – A light, crisp salad with a tangy dressing makes a great side.
🍞 **Serve with Garlic Bread** – Warm, buttered garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the sauce.
🍷 **Pair with a Glass of Wine** – A nice **red wine**, such as a **Chianti** or **Merlot**, would pair beautifully with the rich flavors of this dish.

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## **Storage & Leftovers:**

– **Store** any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to **3 days**.
– **Reheat** in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
– **Freezing** is an option, too! Store the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to **2-3 months**. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

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## **Final Thoughts:**

This dish has earned its place in our **regular rotation** because it’s a **comforting**, **delicious**, and **quick-to-make** meal that everyone in the house loves. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or for a family gathering, it’s a **surefire hit** that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s the kind of recipe that makes life just a little bit easier.

Do you have a go-to meal that’s on regular rotation in your house? Let me know if this becomes a favorite in your home too! 😊🍝