Name: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Meat Sauce: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp sugar (to balance acidity); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking); For the Spaghetti: 1 lb spaghetti; Salt (for the pasta water); Optional Toppings: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

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Spaghetti with meat sauce is a timeless classic that combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich, hearty sauce made from ground meat, tomatoes, and a blend of savory herbs. This comforting dish is a go-to meal for families, weeknight dinners, or any time you’re craving a satisfying Italian meal. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spaghetti with Meat Sauce recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly comforting and delicious. The homemade meat sauce, simmered to perfection, is packed with flavor and pairs wonderfully with al dente spaghetti. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a rich, savory sauce that coats every strand of pasta, making each bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Ingredients

For the meat sauce:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1/2 cup water or beef broth (if needed to thin the sauce)

For the spaghetti:

1 pound spaghetti pasta
Salt, for the pasta water
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the meat sauce:

Cook the ground beef:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the aromatics:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the tomatoes and seasonings:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). If the sauce seems too thick, add 1/2 cup of water or beef broth to thin it to your desired consistency.
Simmer the sauce:
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and develop a rich flavor. If the sauce is too acidic, add a tablespoon of sugar to balance it out. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

For the spaghetti:

Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
Drain the pasta:
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Combine with the sauce:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the meat sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to help thin it and ensure the sauce adheres to the noodles.
Serve:
Divide the spaghetti into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and use lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat substitute to make the sauce vegetarian.
Spicy Meat Sauce: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Meatballs: Instead of ground meat, make meatballs using a mixture of beef, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then simmer them in the sauce for a classic meatball spaghetti.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover spaghetti and meat sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through.

You can also freeze the meat sauce for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the sauce cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. While the flavor may be slightly different, it will still work well with the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The meat sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Simply cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use canned spaghetti sauce instead of making my own?

You can substitute canned spaghetti sauce if you’re in a pinch, but making your own allows you to control the flavor and seasoning. Canned sauces can be a bit more sugary or tangy, so adjust seasoning as needed.

How do I make spaghetti with meat sauce less greasy?

To reduce grease, be sure to drain the fat from the ground meat after cooking. You can also use lean ground beef or ground turkey to make the dish lighter.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. There are many great gluten-free pasta options available, such as those made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas.

How can I make the meat sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for a longer period to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Alternatively, you can stir in a little tomato paste or cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.

What can I serve with spaghetti and meat sauce?

Garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables are all great sides to serve with spaghetti and meat sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the meat sauce?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can make the meat sauce in a slow cooker. Brown the ground meat first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

How do I store leftover spaghetti?

Store leftover spaghetti with meat sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta and sauce are mixed together to prevent the noodles from drying out.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with meat sauce is a beloved dish that’s always a hit with family and friends. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy. With a rich, savory meat sauce paired with tender spaghetti, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. Enjoy!