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Spaghetti with Beef Tomato Sauce

Spaghetti with Beef Tomato Sauce

A quick and comforting Spaghetti with Beef Tomato Sauce recipe bursting with rich tomato flavors and hearty ground beef. Perfect for busy weeknights, this savory pasta dish combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, family-friendly meal that is budget-conscious and versatile.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 12 oz spaghetti pasta
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to cook the spaghetti later.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat for a cleaner sauce.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant to build the flavor base of the tomato sauce.
  4. Simmer the Tomato Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Cook the Spaghetti: Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in the boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a small cup of pasta water.
  6. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the beef tomato sauce. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for ideal flavor and moisture balance.
  • Properly brown the beef to add richness and depth to the sauce.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to concentrate and blend all flavors.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to pasta.
  • Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for fresh aroma and brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti, beef tomato sauce, quick dinner, easy pasta, ground beef pasta, weeknight meal, family-friendly, Italian, savory sauce