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Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

A quick and satisfying spaghetti dish topped with a rich, flavorful meat sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 16 oz Spaghetti Choose whole grain or gluten-free for health-conscious options.
Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground beef Provides protein; substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • 1 Onion, chopped Adds sweetness; shallots work well too.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances flavor; fresh is best, but garlic powder can be a quick alternative.
  • 28 oz Canned tomatoes A must for sauce; opt for fire-roasted for extra depth.
  • 15 oz Tomato sauce Offers a smooth base; low-fat varieties are available.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing, adds richness; coconut oil can be a substitute for a different flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
  • ½ tsp Pepper Balances flavors; use freshly cracked for a punch.
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Brings in herbs; fresh herbs like basil can also be used for brightness.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, around 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in the canned tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer, allowing all the flavors to meld together, for about 10 minutes.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 10 minutes, adding reserved pasta water if it becomes too thick.
  6. Spoon the rich meat sauce generously over the spaghetti and enjoy a hearty meal.

Notes

Tip: Keep your pantry stocked with canned tomatoes and spices to easily elevate your spaghetti. Serve in deep bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a complete experience!