Spaghetti with Hearty Meat Sauce
This hearty spaghetti with meat sauce is a classic beef dinner recipe perfect for any night of the week. You’ll love how simple it is to create this flavorful, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less fat. Ground turkey is a great alternative.
- Canned Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a smooth sauce. Diced tomatoes work if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- Spaghetti: Any long pasta shape works well. Whole wheat spaghetti is a healthier option.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12 ounces spaghetti
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Parmesan cheese, grated
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550
- Tools Needed: Large pot, large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, which means it’s tender but still has a slight bite.
5. Combine and Serve
Drain the cooked spaghetti. You can either toss the spaghetti directly with the meat sauce or serve the sauce over individual portions of pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Variation Ideas:
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables.
- Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a creamier sauce.
- Use different pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover spaghetti and meat sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I freeze the meat sauce? Yes, the meat sauce freezes beautifully in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- What makes this a good beef dinner recipe for beginners? The steps are straightforward and use common ingredients, making it easy to follow.
- How can I make the sauce thicker? Continue to simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer period to allow more liquid to evaporate.
- Is it better to mix the sauce and pasta together or serve separately? This is a personal preference. Mixing it ensures every strand is coated, while serving separately allows for individual portion control.
- Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed? Yes, you can, but your sauce will have a chunkier texture.
- What are some other easy beef dinner recipes? Shepherd’s pie and beef and broccoli stir-fry are also great options.
