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Spaghetti with Meat Sauce: A Classic, Hearty, and Flavorful Dish

This classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. With a slow-simmered meat sauce made from ground beef, tomato sauce, and Italian seasonings, this dish is comforting, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or mix of beef & Italian sausage)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles
  • Water (for boiling)
  • Salt (for seasoning pasta water)

Optional Garnishes & Toppings:

  • Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil
  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook the Meat:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook until browned.
    • Drain excess grease and add chopped onions.
    • Sauté for 3-4 minutes, then stir in minced garlic (if using).
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
    • Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Cook the Spaghetti:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain the noodles and set aside.
  4. Combine and Serve:
    • Add the cooked spaghetti to the meat sauce and toss to coat evenly.
    • Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Notes

  • For extra depth of flavor, use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage.
  • Simmer the sauce for at least 20 minutes to enhance richness.
  • Adding a splash of pasta water to the sauce creates a silkier texture.
  • The sauce tastes even better the next day after flavors meld together.