There’s something about the smell of simmering tomato and meat sauce that instantly transports me back to simpler evenings at home. One particular night, after a long day filled with never-ending to-dos, I sank into the chair, exhausted but eager for comfort. The warm aroma filled the kitchen, a mix of garlic, herbs, and slowly bubbling tomatoes mingling with the unmistakable scent of browned ground beef. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a moment to pause and savor something familiar and grounding.
I remember twirling the tender spaghetti around my fork, the sauce clinging perfectly, bursting with rich flavor in every bite. The grated Parmesan on top melted just enough to add that salty touch that makes all the difference. It was simple but deeply satisfying, a little ritual that reminded me to slow down and enjoy the little things. That night, that plate of spaghetti with tomato and meat sauce was more than food — it was comfort wrapped in a bowl.
- The sauce is richly savory with just the right balance of herbs and a hint of spice.
- Tender spaghetti noodles soak up every bit of the hearty tomato and meat sauce.
- Prepping this meal is straightforward, making it a great choice for weeknights.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully, perfect for busy days ahead.
- Sprinkling fresh parsley and Parmesan adds a fresh, elevated touch.
If you’re worried about the sauce being too heavy or too bland, this recipe strikes a careful balance—it’s flavorful without overwhelming, and the texture of the sauce is just right to coat the pasta without being watery or sticky.
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Spaghetti with Tomato & Meat Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A classic Italian-American dish featuring tender spaghetti noodles topped with a rich and savory tomato and ground beef sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
12 ounces spaghetti pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, water, and sugar.
Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Divide the cooked spaghetti among four plates. Spoon the meat sauce evenly over the pasta.
Sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
FAQ
Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance and tastes even better as the flavors meld overnight.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover spaghetti and sauce? Gently warm the sauce on the stove with a splash of water, then toss with reheated pasta to keep everything moist.
Can I swap ground beef for another protein? Absolutely, ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes work well too.
Is this recipe kid-friendly? Definitely, the mild but flavorful sauce usually appeals to younger palates.
When you’re ready for a meal that feels like a warm embrace after a hectic day, this spaghetti with tomato & meat sauce is waiting to welcome you in. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a go-to favorite.