Description
This classic spaghetti meat sauce is a hearty and satisfying dish made with tender ground beef simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with aromatic herbs. Perfect for a family meal, this recipe brings comfort to the table in under an hour!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
2️⃣ Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, being careful not to brown the garlic.
3️⃣ Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
4️⃣ Add Tomatoes and Paste: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste until fully combined.
5️⃣ Season the Sauce: Add dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
6️⃣ Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to develop.
7️⃣ Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
8️⃣ Serve: Spoon the meat sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Additional Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, or a splash of red wine for depth.
- Vegetable Boost: Add finely chopped carrots or bell peppers to the sauce for added texture and nutrition.
- Make-Ahead: The meat sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins