Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, until completely browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and the tomato paste has slightly darkened.
Step 5: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and incorporate all the flavorful bits.
Step 6: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: If using, stir in the uncooked pasta or rice. Ensure it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta/rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a splash more broth or water.
Step 8: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Step 9: Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homestyle ground beef skillet!