Homemade spaghetti meat sauce is a classic, comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful meal. The hearty sauce, made with ground meat, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, clings perfectly to spaghetti, creating a dish that satisfies the soul. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or a special family meal, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil elevates the dish, making it even more irresistible.
The history of spaghetti with meat sauce is rooted in Italian-American cuisine. While traditional Italian ragù often uses finely minced meat and slow cooking, the adaptation in America introduced ground beef and a quicker preparation method. This change made the dish accessible to busy households, turning it into a staple in kitchens around the world. Today, this versatile recipe remains a favorite, offering endless opportunities for customization and personal touches.
Homemade Spaghetti Meat Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef or pork
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
- In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Toss spaghetti with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese before serving.
This homemade meat sauce delivers comforting flavors in every bite, making it a dish your family will request time and again!
