Absolutely! Here’s a classic homemade spaghetti with meat sauce recipe — hearty, comforting, and perfect for any night of the week 🍝🍅🥩.
Homemade Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional for richer flavor)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- ½ tsp sugar (balances acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the pasta:
- 12–16 oz (340–450 g) spaghetti
- Water and salt for boiling
Optional garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
2. Make the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains.
- Stir in tomato paste (if using), then crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
- Add basil, oregano, thyme, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
3. Combine & Serve
- Toss cooked spaghetti with meat sauce, or serve sauce on top.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs.
- Serve with garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
- Richer flavor: Let the sauce simmer 1 hour on low for deeper flavor.
- Vegetable boost: Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers with the onions.
- Make-ahead: Sauce keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and freezes beautifully.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering.
If you want, I can also give a “restaurant-style” spaghetti with meat sauce recipe that’s extra savory and saucy — like the kind you’d get in an Italian trattoria.
Do you want me to do that?
