Easy Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe

This easy spaghetti with meat sauce recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner, combining simplicity with rich flavors that the entire family will love. Made with fresh ingredients and a savory sauce, it’s not only a favorite dish in many households but also an excellent meal choice for any occasion.

Growing up, Sunday lunches were always special. My grandmother would spend the morning preparing her secret spaghetti with meat sauce that filled the house with the most mouthwatering aroma. To this day, this dish is more than just a meal; it connects our family history and tradition. Every time I prepare it, I’m reminded of those cherished moments spent around the dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for its rich, hearty flavor and ease of preparation. The balance of tangy tomato sauce with perfectly seasoned meat creates a comforting classic that never disappoints. It’s practical for busy weeknights thanks to its quick prep and cook time, and it’s a family-approved dish that both kids and adults enjoy.

Ingredients Notes

When preparing this dish, using fresh, quality ingredients enhances the flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are recommended for their sweetness and low acidity. For the meat, lean ground beef or a mix with pork will offer the best texture. Feel free to add red wine to deepen the flavor, and fresh basil for a fragrant finish.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2

In a separate large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until golden and aromatic.

Step 3

Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Stir in tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize for enhanced flavor.

Step 4

Add canned tomatoes, dried oregano, and basil. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5

Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, using reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency. Serve hot with grated Parmesan.

Storage Options

Store any leftover spaghetti with meat sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extended storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Variations & Substitutions

Consider substituting ground turkey for a lighter version, or use zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. Adding crushed red pepper flakes will give the dish a spicy kick. For a vegetarian option, replace meat with diced mushrooms or a plant-based protein.

Serving Suggestions

This spaghetti dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad. It’s ideal for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Finish the meal with a light dessert, like a lemon sorbet, to cleanse the palate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Yes, preparing the sauce a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even more delicious dish. Simply store the cooled sauce in the refrigerator, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to enjoy.

What type of pasta works best? While spaghetti is the traditional choice, any long pasta like linguine or fettuccine works well with this sauce. For a different texture, consider short pasta such as rigatoni or penne.

How can I thicken the sauce? If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste, or mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water for quick thickening.

Easy Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe

This easy spaghetti with meat sauce is a classic Italian-American dinner that is sure to satisfy. It's packed with flavors and simple to prepare - perfect for a family meal.

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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 lb ground beef lean
• ▢ 12 oz spaghetti
• ▢ 1 medium onion chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 24 oz marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
• ▢ 1 tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 1 tsp dried oregano
• ▢ 0.5 tsp dried basil
• ▢ 0.5 tsp salt to taste
• ▢ 0.25 tsp black pepper to taste
• ▢ 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for serving
• ▢ 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.
• Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
• Stir in marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Let simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Drain the spaghetti and add to the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss to combine until spaghetti is evenly coated.
• Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.