A steaming plate of homemade spaghetti with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together rich flavors, tender pasta, and a hearty meat sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, offering a satisfying balance of protein, fiber, and savory goodness. The best part is that it’s easy to prepare with simple pantry staples, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its depth of flavor and homemade charm.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and then the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Pour in the water to help blend the flavors. Add oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until well coated. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the spaghetti into plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil for a touch of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!