Go Back
–+ servings
Classic Meat Sauce

Classic Meat Sauce

Discover the secret to a rich and comforting Classic Meat Sauce for spaghetti A hearty family favorite with deep flavors and simple ingredients Perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional) for heat
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for topping
  • q.s. fresh chopped basil or parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add diced onion, and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute while stirring.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until fully browned, about 6-8 minutes.
  5. Season beef with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper; stir well.
  6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar; let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese and taste to adjust seasonings if necessary.
  8. Combine cooked spaghetti with meat sauce in the skillet, tossing to coat; garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For extra flavor, let the sauce sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld. Leftover spaghetti and meat sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!