Spaghetti with Ground Beef Sauce — I learned this recipe from a friend in Italy; the flavor is irresistible!

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
• 500g (1 lb) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Prepare the sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes (and tomato paste if using). Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss well to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve: Divide into bowls, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Enjoy!

Would you like me to adapt this with any extra Italian touches — like a splash of red wine or a dash of sugar for balance? Just say the word! 🇮🇹✨