Dinner

Cinnamon Beef & Pasta Apple

Name: Cinnamon Beef & Pasta Apple
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb beef stew meat or sirloin, cubed; 8 oz rigatoni or tube pasta; 2 apples, peeled and chopped; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey; 1 cup apple cider or apple juice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

ByMariem June 27, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Cinnamon Beef & Pasta Apple is a bold and unexpected fusion that blends tender beef chunks, warm cinnamon-spiced apple sauce, and al dente pasta in a comforting, sweet-savory dish. Rich with seasonal flavor and texture, this recipe brings together elements of a hearty stew and a spiced dessert in one unique meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe defies traditional boundaries and creates a dish full of rich, aromatic character. Here’s why it stands out:

Surprising Flavor Harmony: The warmth of cinnamon apples complements savory beef.
Sweet & Savory Fusion: Balances the deep umami of beef with fruity sweetness.
Comforting Texture: Soft pasta, juicy beef, and velvety apple sauce.
One-Pot Simplicity: All-in-one meal with minimal cleanup.
Autumn-Inspired: Perfect for cold nights or cozy gatherings.
Elegant Yet Hearty: Suitable for both rustic dinners and creative plating.

If you enjoy trying new flavor combinations, this dish will surprise and delight your palate.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef stew meat or sirloin, cubed
rigatoni or tube pasta
apples, peeled and chopped
ground cinnamon
brown sugar or honey
apple cider or apple juice
beef broth
butter
olive oil
salt and pepper
corn starch (optional, for thickening)

directions

Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a pot. Season beef with salt and pepper and sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
Make the Apple Cinnamon Base
In the same pot, melt butter and add chopped apples. Cook until softened. Add cinnamon, brown sugar or honey, and apple cider. Simmer until apples break down.
Simmer the Stew
Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth and simmer until the beef is tender and the flavors are blended (about 45 minutes). Thicken with corn starch if desired.
Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta separately until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Serve
Gently mix pasta into the beef-apple mixture. Stir to coat. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra cinnamon or parsley.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4–6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Feel free to tailor this innovative dish to your preferences:

Spicy-Sweet: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for heat.
Vegan Version: Use jackfruit or seared mushrooms and vegetable broth.
Apple Puree Style: Blend the apples for a smooth, cinnamon-laced sauce.
Bourbon Twist: Deglaze the pan with a splash of bourbon for a deeper flavor.
Dried Fruit Addition: Add raisins or dried cranberries during the apple cooking stage.

storage/reheating

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the beef-apple sauce separately from pasta for best texture.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove or in a microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of chunks?

Yes, ground beef works for a quicker version, though cubed beef gives better texture.

What type of apples should I use?

Use firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for structure and flavor.

Is this a dessert or a main course?

It’s a savory main dish with sweet elements—think of it like sweet and sour pork with an autumn twist.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Can I omit the pasta?

Certainly. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables instead.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, especially for kids who enjoy cinnamon and apples.

Can I use jarred applesauce instead?

Yes, but adjust the sweetness and texture accordingly.

What other spices work in this dish?

Try adding nutmeg, cloves, or even a hint of ginger for depth.

How do I make it more savory?

Reduce the sweetener slightly and add a splash of soy sauce or a bit of Worcestershire.

Does this keep well overnight?

Yes, and the flavors deepen beautifully after a day in the fridge.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Beef & Pasta Apple is a daring and delightful blend of sweet, savory, and spiced flavors. By pairing tender beef with cinnamon-kissed apple sauce and hearty pasta, it offers a rich and warming experience unlike any traditional dish. It’s a must-try for adventurous eaters and seasonal food lovers looking to expand their flavor repertoire.

Mariem