Few dishes offer the same comforting embrace as a plate of spaghetti smothered in a rich, savory ground beef sauce. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two, a weeknight family meal, or a hearty main for a dinner party, this timeless recipe delivers every single time. Rooted in the essence of Italian home cooking, spaghetti with ground beef sauce combines pantry staples and bold, familiar flavors in one incredibly satisfying bowl.
This dish, often referred to as a simplified version of Bolognese, is more than just a quick pasta recipe—it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its meaty base, fragrant tomato sauce, and the perfect al dente pasta, every bite is layered with richness, depth, and love. And the best part? It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Recipe
- It’s budget-friendly and uses basic pantry staples.
- Ready in under an hour—perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs, proteins, or pasta types.
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved—great for feeding a crowd.
- Freezer-friendly, making it ideal for meal prepping or leftovers.
Whether you’re craving a traditional Italian meal or need a quick comfort food fix, this dish has your back.
Ingredients
To create a well-balanced and deeply flavorful meat sauce paired with pasta, gather these essentials:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean preferred)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Optional Additions:
- Red pepper flakes (for heat)
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Splash of red wine or beef broth
- Diced vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well to combine. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If using red pepper flakes or wine, add them now. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop deeper flavor.
Boil the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt generously, then add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta but do not rinse, as the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
Assemble the Dish
Either toss the drained spaghetti directly with the sauce or plate the pasta and ladle the sauce over the top. Garnish generously with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy every comforting bite.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Use fresh garlic and onion for the most aromatic base flavor.
- Deglaze with wine or broth for a richer, deeper sauce.
- Simmer slowly for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add pasta water (1–2 tablespoons) if your sauce feels too thick—it adds body and helps coat the pasta.
- Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or butter for a silkier finish.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the great strengths of this dish is its flexibility. Here are a few creative ways to switch it up:
Lighten It Up
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add grated zucchini or carrots for extra nutrients and moisture.
Vegetarian Version
- Substitute brown lentils, plant-based meat crumbles, or chopped mushrooms for the ground beef.
- Use vegetable broth in place of any meat-based liquids.
Boost the Flavor
- Add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar to balance acidity.
- Toss in Italian sausage for extra flavor and spice.
- Mix in cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamier, indulgent sauce.
Try New Pasta Shapes
- Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine can be used for different textures and presentation.
- Swap for whole wheat, chickpea, or gluten-free pasta as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines on its own, but a few sides can really elevate your meal:
- Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to mop up the sauce.
- A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes.
- A glass of robust red wine such as Chianti, Cabernet, or Sangiovese.
- Finish with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu or panna cotta.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Prepare in Advance
The meat sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
Freezer-Friendly
Portion sauce into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
Leftover Pasta
Store combined pasta and sauce in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to revive the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use jarred sauce instead of making it from scratch?
Yes, you can use a store-bought marinara or pasta sauce to save time. Just brown the meat, then stir in the sauce and simmer for a few minutes.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer longer uncovered, or add a bit more tomato paste. Avoid adding too much liquid too early.
Is it okay to use frozen ground beef?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even browning and flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat spaghetti with sauce?
Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet or pan, then stir in the pasta and gently heat over medium-low until warmed through.
Can I use crushed tomatoes instead of diced?
Absolutely. Crushed tomatoes will give a smoother sauce texture compared to diced.
What herbs go best with this dish?
Dried oregano and basil are classics, but fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary add a wonderful aromatic note.
Final Thoughts
Spaghetti with ground beef sauce is more than a recipe—it’s a comforting tradition that brings families together, nourishes the soul, and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. From its simple ingredients to its complex, satisfying flavor, this dish delivers everything you want in a home-cooked meal.
Whether you keep it traditional or give it your own modern twist, it’s a recipe worth mastering. So grab your pot, roll up your sleeves, and let this hearty Italian-inspired dish transport you to a table filled with love, laughter, and lots of delicious pasta. Buon appetito!