There’s something truly comforting about a plate of homemade spaghetti with meat sauce. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with a rich, savory aroma and brings everyone to the table with eager anticipation. This classic meal has been a staple in many households for generations, offering warmth, nourishment, and a sense of home. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a meal to impress guests, or just a way to satisfy a craving for something hearty and delicious, spaghetti with meat sauce never disappoints.
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple yet flavorful it is. The sauce simmers to perfection, allowing the flavors to develop into a deep, rich, and comforting taste. It’s the perfect balance of hearty ground beef, tomatoes, herbs, and spices, all coming together in a thick, luscious sauce that clings perfectly to strands of pasta.
This is the kind of recipe that you’ll want to make again and again—not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s easy, customizable, and makes for fantastic leftovers. So, grab your favorite pasta pot, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – This recipe uses pantry staples to create an incredibly rich and satisfying sauce.
- Easy to Make – Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find this dish simple to prepare with just a few steps.
- Family Favorite – Kids and adults alike love a classic spaghetti and meat sauce dinner.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – The sauce stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for batch cooking.
- Customizable – You can easily adjust the seasoning, swap in different meats, or add extra veggies to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For Garnishing:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How to Make Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Making a homemade meat sauce may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite simple. The key is to let the sauce simmer, allowing all the flavors to blend beautifully. Here’s how you can make this dish step by step:
Step 1: Cook the Aromatics
In a large saucepan or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir, then lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for at least 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken. If you have more time, letting it simmer for up to an hour will make the sauce even richer.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, 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.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Remove the bay leaf from the sauce and give it a final taste test. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the meat sauce over a plate of cooked spaghetti, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For a Richer Sauce – Let the sauce simmer longer. The more time it has to cook, the deeper the flavors will be.
- Make It Thicker – If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
- Boost the Flavor – A pinch of sugar balances out the acidity of the tomatoes, but you can also use grated carrots for natural sweetness.
- Use Fresh Herbs – If you have fresh basil or oregano, add them at the end for a burst of freshness.
- Make It Spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
- Double the Recipe – This sauce freezes beautifully, so make a big batch and store extra portions for quick meals later.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Notes
- Longer Simmer, Better Flavor – Let the sauce simmer longer for a richer taste.
- Use Quality Tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes provide the best flavor.
- Balance Acidity – A pinch of sugar or grated carrots helps reduce acidity.
- Adjust Consistency – Simmer uncovered for a thicker sauce; add broth for a thinner one.
- Boost Flavor – A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce adds depth.
- Dietary Options – Use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese if needed.
- Spice Level – Adjust red pepper flakes for more or less heat.
- Storage Tip – Freeze in portions for easy meal prep.
- Perfect Pairing – Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.
Freezer:
Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Leftover Spaghetti:
If you have leftover spaghetti with sauce already mixed in, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to refresh the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta you like—penne, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water. A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add extra depth of flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots all work great in this sauce. Sauté them with the onions for extra flavor.
How do I make this sauce in advance?
This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Related Recipes
If you loved this spaghetti with meat sauce, try these other delicious pasta dishes:
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a simple, homemade spaghetti with meat sauce. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, filling the kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. Whether you’re making this for a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, grab a fork, twirl some pasta, and enjoy every bite!
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Homemade Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Description
There’s something truly comforting about a plate of homemade spaghetti with meat sauce. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with a rich, savory aroma and brings everyone to the table with eager anticipation. This classic meal has been a staple in many households for generations, offering warmth, nourishment, and a sense of home. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a meal to impress guests, or just a way to satisfy a craving for something hearty and delicious, spaghetti with meat sauce never disappoints.
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple yet flavorful it is. The sauce simmers to perfection, allowing the flavors to develop into a deep, rich, and comforting taste. It’s the perfect balance of hearty ground beef, tomatoes, herbs, and spices, all coming together in a thick, luscious sauce that clings perfectly to strands of pasta.
This is the kind of recipe that you’ll want to make again and again—not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s easy, customizable, and makes for fantastic leftovers. So, grab your favorite pasta pot, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For Garnishing:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Aromatics
In a large saucepan or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir, then lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for at least 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken. If you have more time, letting it simmer for up to an hour will make the sauce even richer.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, 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.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Remove the bay leaf from the sauce and give it a final taste test. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the meat sauce over a plate of cooked spaghetti, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Notes
- Longer Simmer, Better Flavor – Let the sauce simmer longer for a richer taste.
- Use Quality Tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes provide the best flavor.
- Balance Acidity – A pinch of sugar or grated carrots helps reduce acidity.
- Adjust Consistency – Simmer uncovered for a thicker sauce; add broth for a thinner one.
- Boost Flavor – A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce adds depth.
- Dietary Options – Use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese if needed.
- Spice Level – Adjust red pepper flakes for more or less heat.
- Storage Tip – Freeze in portions for easy meal prep.
- Perfect Pairing – Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.