Print

Classic Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe Easy Family Comfort Dinner

classic spaghetti and meat sauce recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy classic spaghetti and meat sauce recipe that delivers rich, hearty flavor and comforting family dinner vibes. Perfect for busy weeknights and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) dried spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef, preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces (800 grams) canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • A handful fresh basil, chopped or torn
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to 4 quarts (3.8 liters) of water. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with your spoon and cook for about 7-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to intensify the tomato flavor.
  6. Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
  7. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce gets too thick.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
  9. Toss the drained spaghetti with the sauce or serve the sauce ladled over the pasta. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

Notes

For richer flavor, prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth. Browning the meat properly adds depth. Save pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Fresh garlic is preferred over garlic powder. Variations include vegetarian substitutions, adding veggies, or using gluten-free pasta.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti, meat sauce, classic recipe, family dinner, easy dinner, comfort food, ground beef, pasta sauce

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/classic-spaghetti-and-meat-sauce-recipe-easy-family-comfort-dinner/