Introduction
Savor the comforting flavors of this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti recipe—a timeless dish that never fails to bring a smile to the table. With its hearty meat sauce, tender spaghetti, and aromatic herbs, this classic recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, this dish combines simplicity with bold, homemade flavors.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup green bell peppers (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 small can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
For the Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- Salt (for boiling water)
Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain the excess grease from the skillet and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the prepared meat sauce until fully coated. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Variations
Vegetarian Version
Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or finely chopped mushrooms.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Rich and Creamy
Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamy texture.
Cheesy Delight
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Notes
Ensure the ground beef is fully cooked before adding other ingredients. Use fresh garlic and herbs for enhanced flavor if available. Adjust the sugar and salt to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with warm garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach for added nutrition. Complement the flavors with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti.
Tips
- Stir the sauce occasionally while simmering to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
- For perfectly cooked spaghetti, check for doneness 1-2 minutes before the recommended cooking time.
- Double the recipe and freeze portions of the sauce for a quick meal option later.
- Always use a large pot with plenty of water to cook the pasta evenly.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approximation)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without gluten.
How long can I store leftover spaghetti?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Absolutely! Use 5-6 medium fresh tomatoes, peeled and crushed, for a fresher flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, you can include diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Spaghetti is a delicious, comforting dish that brings the essence of homemade cooking to your table. With its hearty meat sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or a special gathering, this timeless classic delivers a taste of nostalgia with every bite.
PrintOld-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
Savor the comforting flavors of this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti recipe—a timeless dish that never fails to bring a smile to the table. With its hearty meat sauce, tender spaghetti, and aromatic herbs, this classic recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, this dish combines simplicity with bold, homemade flavors.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup green bell peppers (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 small can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
For the Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- Salt (for boiling water)
For Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain the excess grease from the skillet and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the prepared meat sauce until fully coated. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Ensure the ground beef is fully cooked before adding other ingredients. Use fresh garlic and herbs for enhanced flavor if available. Adjust the sugar and salt to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sodium: 780mg
- Protein: 22g