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Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe

This Spaghetti and Meat Sauce is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. Tender spaghetti noodles are topped with a rich, savory meat sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of Italian herbs. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or making a quick weeknight dinner, this classic pasta dish is always a winner!

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling spaghetti
  • Large skillet or saucepan for the meat sauce
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Strainer for draining pasta
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  • For the meat sauce:
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
  • For the spaghetti:
  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles
  • Salt for water
  • For serving:
  • Grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • Fresh basil or parsley optional

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sautĂ© for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • To serve, plate the cooked spaghetti and spoon the meat sauce generously over the top. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
  • Enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti and meat sauce!