Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe

One evening, I needed to make a quick dinner that would satisfy the whole family. I had ground beef in the fridge, canned tomatoes in the pantry, and a box of spaghetti on the shelf. So, I put everything together and made a simple meat sauce. It turned out so good that now it’s a regular meal in my home.

This spaghetti with meat sauce recipe is easy, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s one of those dishes that always hits the spot, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. Plus, it’s simple enough to make from scratch without much effort.

Servings	Total
4	35mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I grew up eating spaghetti with meat sauce, and it was always a go-to meal in my family. Over the years, I’ve made small adjustments to get the flavors just right. Now, it’s my version of a classic dish that I make all the time.

Why Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Spaghetti with meat sauce is a comforting and filling meal that’s easy to prepare. The combination of tender pasta and rich, savory sauce makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. It’s also great for leftovers, so you can enjoy it the next day without much effort.

What Is Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Made Of?

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients:

• Spaghetti pasta
• Ground beef
• Onion and garlic
• Canned tomatoes (diced and crushed)
• Tomato paste
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Parmesan cheese (for serving)

What to Have with Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Garlic bread: A crunchy, buttery side to soak up the sauce.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or zucchini make a great addition.
• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan takes the dish to the next level.

Is Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Healthy?

Spaghetti with meat sauce can be a healthy meal when made with lean ground beef and whole wheat pasta. The tomatoes provide vitamins, and you can control the amount of oil and salt to keep it balanced. For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of beef.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or saucepan for sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for spice
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions.
   • Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
   • Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste.
   • Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
   • Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine and Serve:
   • Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, or serve the sauce on top.
   • Garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips

• For extra flavor, let the sauce simmer longer—30 minutes to an hour will deepen the taste.
• Add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce for a richer sauce.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water to loosen it.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with meat sauce is a simple, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a family favorite. Serve it with garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal that everyone will love. Try it out—you’ll see why it’s a classic!

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