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