spaghetti and meat sauce recipe

 

🍝 Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe | Classic Italian Comfort Food

Looking for a hearty and satisfying weeknight dinner? This Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is a family-favorite dish packed with rich tomato flavor, perfectly seasoned ground meat, and al dente pasta. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to hit the spot!

📝 Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup water or beef broth
• 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)

For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti noodles
• Salted water for boiling

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra virgin olive oil drizzle

---

🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
3. Drain and set aside. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
5. Drain excess fat if needed.
6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, chili flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer on low for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Add cooked spaghetti to the meat sauce and toss until coated.
2. Alternatively, serve sauce over the pasta for a traditional plating.
3. Garnish with Parmesan and fresh basil.

---

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
• Pair with red wine or sparkling water with lemon for a full Italian-inspired meal.

---

🧊 Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze meat sauce (separately) for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave or simmer on stovetop until heated through.

---

🔄 Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Use lentils or plant-based crumbles instead of ground beef.
• Spicy: Add hot Italian sausage or more chili flakes.
• Creamy: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or ricotta for a creamy meat sauce twist.

🔍 FAQ: Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

Q: Can I use jarred pasta sauce?
Yes, but making your own from scratch is more flavorful and customizable.

Q: What kind of pasta works best?
Spaghetti is traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or linguine also work well.

Q: Can I double the sauce recipe?
Absolutely! It's perfect for meal prep or freezing for later use.

---

🌟 Pro Tip:

Add a splash of pasta cooking water to the sauce before combining—it helps the sauce cling to the noodles and adds extra silkiness!

---

✅ Similar Recipes to Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

1. Spaghetti Bolognese

A richer, slow-simmered version with carrots, celery, and milk—very close to classic meat sauce.

2. Ground Beef Marinara Pasta

A quick 30-minute pasta using jarred or homemade marinara plus ground beef.

3. Lasagna with Meat Sauce

Same flavor profile but layered with pasta sheets, ricotta, and mozzarella.

4. Beef Ragu Pasta

Slow-cooked beef in a tomato sauce served over pappardelle or spaghetti.

5. Meatball Spaghetti

Similar taste but uses juicy homemade meatballs instead of ground beef.

---

📢 Show Us Your Pasta!

Tried this recipe? Tag @monzoorskitchen on Instagram or Pinterest and use #SpaghettiNight to share your delicious bowl!