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Spaghetti with meat sauce and Parmesan served in a bowl.

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

A savory, tomato-rich meat sauce served over al dente spaghetti. A comforting family dinner made with simple pantry ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef 90/10
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water as needed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan plus more for serving
  • Fresh basil optional

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente according to the package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Warm the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook the onion for 4 to 5 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Add the ground beef, break it into small pieces, and cook until browned, stirring often. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Confirm the ground beef reaches 160°F (71°C) with a food thermometer.
  6. Toss the spaghetti with enough sauce to coat, adding a splash of pasta water if needed. Serve with more sauce, Parmesan, and fresh basil.