Spaghetti And Ground Beef

A simple and hearty pasta dish made with seasoned ground beef and rich tomato sauce, tossed with tender spaghetti noodles.

 Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

• Servings: 4–6

 Overview

Spaghetti and ground beef is a timeless dinner option that’s fast, affordable, and satisfying. This version features a rich homemade tomato sauce infused with garlic, onion, and herbs — all wrapped around al dente spaghetti noodles and hearty ground beef. It’s a go-to recipe for weeknight meals, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crowd.

 Ingredients

For the Ground Beef Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (24 oz / 680g) can crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti

• Salt, for pasta water

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.

3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6–8 minutes).

5. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

2. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add cooked spaghetti directly to the sauce and toss to coat.
   – Alternatively, spoon sauce over plated spaghetti for a classic look.

2. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil.

3. Serve hot with grated Parmesan and crusty bread or salad on the side.

 Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

Nutrition will vary depending on portion size and optional toppings.

 Recipe Tips & Variations

• Add veggies: Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed with the onions for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Use different meat: Try ground turkey, pork, or a beef/pork mix for a twist.

• Make it cheesy: Stir in ½ cup shredded mozzarella or top with cheese and broil until melted.

• Spice it up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze meat sauce (without pasta) for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Microwave gently or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

 Pairing Suggestions

• Drink: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot complements the dish.

• Side: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.

 Final Thoughts

This classic Spaghetti and Ground Beef recipe is a no-fail meal that never goes out of style. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and always hits the spot — whether for a casual family dinner or a cozy night in.