Classic Spaghetti and Ground Beef Recipe: A Comfort Food

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a harmony of pantry staples — ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, onions, and garlic — transformed into a heartwarming meal with just the right touch of seasoning. It's easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable.

Here are some key advantages:

1. Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for a weeknight.
2. Affordable: Uses ingredients you likely already have.
3. Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors.
4. Versatile: Add veggies, spices, or cheese to make it your own.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we jump into the recipe, let's review the ingredients. This version keeps things simple and classic.

For the Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for flavor and a bit of fat)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar (balances the acidity of tomatoes)

For the Pasta:

• 12–16 oz spaghetti noodles
• Water for boiling
• Salt for seasoning the pasta water

Optional Toppings:

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Crushed red pepper for spice lovers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Start by chopping your onion and mincing the garlic. Have your seasonings ready. Open your cans of tomatoes and tomato paste so everything is within reach.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt—this is your only chance to season the pasta.
• Add spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain, but reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This can help thin the sauce later if needed.
• Toss the drained noodles with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

3. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat:

• Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon or spatula.Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.
• Season with a bit of salt and pepper as it cooks.If there's excess grease, drain it carefully.

4. Sauté the Aromatics

Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet, then:

• Add olive oil and onions, and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Now, combine everything in the pan and stir well.

5. Build the Sauce

• Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for about 2 minutes. This helps develop a deeper tomato flavor.

Then add:

• Crushed tomatoes
• Oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using)
• Sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

6. Combine and Serve

You can either:

• Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce and toss to coat (restaurant-style), or Serve the pasta first and ladle the sauce on top.
• Top with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

1. Use quality tomatoes: Canned San Marzano or crushed tomatoes make a noticeable difference.
2. Don't skip the sugar: A small amount enhances the sauce without making it sweet.
3. Let it simmer: Even a 20-minute simmer gives the sauce more depth.
4. Make it ahead: The sauce tastes even better the next day.
5. Double the batch: Freeze half for a no-fuss meal later.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

1. Add Vegetables

Boost nutrition and flavor with:

• Diced bell peppers
• Mushrooms
• Carrots (grated or finely chopped)
• Zucchini
• Sauté them with the onion and garlic.

2. Make It Cheesy

Stir in mozzarella or ricotta just before serving for a creamy twist.

3. Go Spicy

Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to heat things.

4. Herb It Up

Use fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme if you have them — they brighten the dish.

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Green salad with Italian dressing
• Steamed or roasted vegetables
• And of course, don't forget a generous sprinkle of Parmesan on top.

Leftovers and Storage

Spaghetti and ground beef sauce stored well and tasted even better the next day.

1. Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
2. Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
3. Reheat: Gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
4. Pro tip: Freeze sauce separately from pasta for the best texture upon reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! For a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. Just add a bit of olive oil to compensate for the lower fat content.

What if I don't have tomato paste?

You can use an extra tablespoon of tomato sauce or ketchup in a pinch, but tomato paste adds that rich, concentrated flavor. It's worth keeping on hand.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free spaghetti and double-check that your canned tomatoes and other gluten-free ingredients are correct.

How can I make it low-carb?

Skip the pasta and serve the beef sauce over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice.

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