Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day at work? Do you want a delicious dinner that doesn't require a mountain of dishes to clean up? Look no further! This Italian - inspired pasta dish is the answer to your weeknight dinner prayers. It's not only easy to make but also a breeze to clean up, hitting all the right notes for a perfect weeknight meal.

Let's start with the ingredients. You'll need some staple items that are probably already in your pantry or fridge. For the pasta, choose your favorite type. Whether it's penne, spaghetti, or fusilli, the choice is yours. A box of high - quality pasta will be the base of this wonderful dish. You'll also need some canned crushed tomatoes. These are the heart of the Italian - style sauce. They add a rich, tangy flavor that is characteristic of Italian cuisine. Some minced garlic is a must - have. Garlic brings a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. A bit of olive oil is essential for sautéing the garlic and creating a smooth texture in the sauce.

To make the sauce even more delicious, add some dried Italian herbs. Oregano, basil, and thyme are classic choices. They bring that authentic Italian aroma and taste to the sauce. You can also throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. For protein, ground beef or Italian sausage are great options. They add a savory element to the pasta. If you're vegetarian, you can use mushrooms or lentils as a substitute. And don't forget the cheese! Parmesan cheese is the perfect topping for this pasta. It adds a salty, nutty flavor and a lovely crust on top when melted.

Now, let's get cooking. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it's fragrant, which should take about a minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter. Then, add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it's browned all over. This usually takes about 5 - 7 minutes.

Once the meat is cooked, add the canned crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine the meat and the tomatoes. Then, add the dried Italian herbs and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 - 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. While the sauce is simmering, drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.

When the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it's well - coated. You can add a little bit of the pasta cooking water to the sauce if it's too thick. This will help to thin it out and create a creamy consistency. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and sprinkle a generous amount of Parmesan cheese on top. You can also add some fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.

One of the best things about this dish is the cleanup. Since you only used one large pot for cooking the pasta and one skillet for making the sauce, you don't have a sink full of dirty dishes. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend on cleaning up. And the taste? It's absolutely amazing. The combination of the al dente pasta, the rich tomato sauce, the savory meat, and the melted Parmesan cheese is a match made in heaven.

You can customize this dish to suit your taste. If you like more vegetables, you can add some bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the sauce. If you're in the mood for a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese. The possibilities are endless. So, the next time you're looking for an easy, delicious, and low - cleanup dinner, give this Italian - inspired pasta dish a try. It's sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or a small group of friends, this pasta dish is a winner. It's budget - friendly, as the ingredients are inexpensive and easy to find. And it's a great way to enjoy a taste of Italy without having to go to a fancy restaurant. So, roll up your sleeves, get in the kitchen, and whip up this wonderful pasta dish. Your taste buds will thank you!