Spaghetti with meat sauce is an ageless classic that brings joy to any dinner table. Its simple yet hearty nature makes it a favorite for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a delicious, filling meal. The rich and flavorful meat sauce, made with a blend of tomatoes, ground meat, and aromatic herbs, perfectly complements the al dente texture of spaghetti. While this dish is easy to prepare, its depth of flavor is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, spaghetti with meat sauce never disappoints. This recipe offers an easy-to-follow guide for creating a savory, comforting meal that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground Beef: The star of the dish, ground beef provides a savory base for the meat sauce. While lean beef is typically used, you can experiment with different cuts of beef for varied textures and flavors.
Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil helps sauté the onions, garlic, and other ingredients, giving the sauce a smooth richness that enhances the overall dish.
Onion: A finely chopped onion brings a slight sweetness and savory depth to the sauce. It’s an essential aromatic that forms the foundation of the sauce’s flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant and slightly spicy punch to the sauce. It’s key in infusing the dish with a robust flavor.
Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are often used for their richness and consistency. A combination of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste thickens the sauce and provides a deep, tangy base.
Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds a concentrated, rich tomato flavor, making the sauce thicker and more robust.
Dried Herbs: Oregano, basil, and thyme are the traditional herbs used to bring earthy and aromatic notes to the sauce. They balance the acidity of the tomatoes with their fragrant flavors.
Red Wine: Optional but highly recommended, red wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce. It creates a wonderful balance with the tomato base.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance all the ingredients, helping to bring out the natural flavors of the sauce and the meat.
Spaghetti: The pasta is the perfect vehicle to carry the savory meat sauce. Choose your preferred spaghetti, whether regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free.
Directions
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, allowing it to release its fragrance.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through.
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and dried herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water.
- Once the sauce is ready, toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, if desired.
Equipment needed:
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. The total time required to prepare and cook this dish is around 45-50 minutes, including simmering the sauce and cooking the pasta. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for a weekend meal.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover spaghetti with meat sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Variations and Customizations
There are plenty of ways to customize this classic spaghetti with meat sauce. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
Meat Choices: While ground beef is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter version. For a richer flavor, try adding Italian sausage.
Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a meatless alternative, you can substitute the ground meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles for a hearty yet vegetarian dish.
Spices and Herbs: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your personal taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a spicy kick, while fresh basil or parsley can be used to garnish the dish for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Tomato Variations: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the tomatoes before adding them to the skillet. Alternatively, roasted tomatoes provide a deeper, sweeter flavor.
Pasta Variations: While spaghetti is a classic, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great and hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Here’s the nutrition breakdown for a standard serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Protein (g) | 28 |
| Carbs (g) | 55 |
| Fat (g) | 22 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 8 |
| Fiber (g) | 4 |
| Sugar (g) | 8 |
| Sodium (mg) | 600 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Make Ahead: This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for meal prep or a busy week ahead.
Fresh Herbs: If you prefer fresh herbs, use them in place of dried ones. Fresh basil or parsley can add an aromatic finish.
Cheese Options: While parmesan is the most common cheese used, you can also try mozzarella, pecorino, or even a sprinkle of ricotta for a creamy twist.
FAQs
What can I use instead of red wine in the sauce?
You can substitute the wine with vegetable broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Can I make the meat sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.
How do I store leftover spaghetti with meat sauce?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Can I freeze the meat sauce?
Yes, the sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the sauce.
How long do I cook the sauce for?
Simmer the sauce for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used for a lighter version of this dish.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Spaghetti with meat sauce is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your household. Whether you make it as is or add your own custom twists, this recipe is a great base for creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite!
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