Spaghetti with meat sauce is a timeless dish that has been a family favorite for generations. Its rich, savory sauce perfectly coats tender strands of pasta, creating a meal that satisfies both the heart and the palate. Whether you’re making dinner for a crowd or preparing a comforting meal for your loved ones, this recipe brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your table with ease and authenticity.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 2 lbs ground beef – Provides a hearty and flavorful base.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds texture and freshness to the sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes – Creates a smooth, rich base.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce – Adds depth and consistency.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – Enhances the richness of the sauce and is used for sautéing.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with robust, aromatic depth.
- 1 large onion or 2 medium onions, diced – Adds sweetness and body.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced – Offers a subtle sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Amplifies the garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the overall depth.
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley – Brings a fresh, herbaceous note.
- 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil – Offers a peppery, slightly sweet flavor typical of Italian cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A balanced blend of herbs that deepens the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt – Elevates all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild heat to balance the sauce.
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb spaghetti – A classic pairing with the meat sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps prevent pasta from sticking.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering and preparing your ingredients. Dice the onions and bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Prepping everything in advance will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can impart a bitter flavor.
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
5. Drain Excess Grease:
Carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This step is essential to keep the sauce from becoming too oily and ensures a perfect balance of flavors.
6. Season the Meat:
Return the skillet to the heat and season the cooked beef with garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, dried basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the meat.
7. Add Tomatoes:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine everything, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
8. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For an even richer sauce, let it simmer for up to 2 hours if time permits.
9. Cook the Spaghetti:
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the water to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions for al dente, typically 7–8 minutes.
10. Drain the Pasta:
Drain the cooked pasta in a colander, shaking off any excess water. Avoid rinsing the pasta, as this removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
11. Combine and Serve:
Transfer the drained pasta to a serving bowl or back into the pot. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta, using tongs or a pasta fork to toss until every strand is evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of minced parsley.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
Tips for Success
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra layer of depth.
- Cheese Lovers: Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese into the sauce during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
- Alternative Noodles: Swap spaghetti with whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or gluten-free options for dietary preferences.
Conclusion
This Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s a dish that brings people together. From the rich, slow-simmered sauce to the perfectly cooked pasta, each bite is a testament to the comforting power of home-cooked meals. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.
Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal, and enjoy the timeless flavors of this Italian-inspired classic!