Description
“Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is the ultimate comfort food! This hearty dish features tender pasta topped with a rich, flavorful meat sauce made from ground beef, tomatoes, and savory seasonings. Perfect for a family dinner or weeknight meal, it’s easy to make and always satisfying!”
Ingredients
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For the Meat Sauce:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
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For the Spaghetti:
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1 lb spaghetti
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Salt (for the pasta water)
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Optional Toppings:
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Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Spaghetti:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Make the Meat Sauce:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat.
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Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
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Drain any excess fat, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
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Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce:
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Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the meat sauce, or serve the sauce over the spaghetti. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in sauce.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Divide the spaghetti with meat sauce onto plates and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes
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For extra flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of butter to the sauce for a creamy texture.
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Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce.
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If you want to make it ahead, the meat sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add chili powder.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
