There’s just something magical about gathering your loved ones around the table for a big bowl of Homemade Spaghetti. This classic recipe combines a savory tomato sauce loaded with ground beef, aromatic onions, garlic, and just the right blend of Italian herbs. Everything comes together in under 40 minutes, filling your kitchen with the most inviting, cozy aroma. Whether you’re craving comfort, nostalgia, or an easy weeknight win, this dish will deliver—every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the heart and soul of Homemade Spaghetti. Each one plays a crucial part, enhancing the taste, texture, and vibrant color of the final dish. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few pantry staples create pure pasta perfection.
- Olive oil: A drizzle starts the sauce off with richness and helps brown your meat beautifully.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage: The foundation of a hearty, savory meat sauce—choose your favorite or mix both for extra depth.
- Yellow onion: Adds gentle sweetness and welcomed texture to round out the sauce.
- Garlic: Two cloves give a true Italian flavor punch—don’t skimp!
- Crushed tomatoes: The bulk of your vibrant, flavorful sauce—choose a good-quality can for the best results.
- Tomato sauce: Brings silkiness and body to your sauce.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies both the color and the tomato flavor for an irresistible finish.
- Italian seasoning: A well-rounded herbal note—this is what makes everything taste like home.
- Dried basil: Subtle, fragrant, and key to a classic Italian sauce.
- Salt: Essential for balancing all the other flavors.
- Black pepper: A little heat, a little spice—totally necessary.
- Sugar (optional): Just a bit softens the acidity of the tomatoes, but feel free to skip if you prefer a tangier sauce.
- Spaghetti noodles: The show-stopping pasta that brings the whole dish together.
- Grated Parmesan and fresh basil (optional): These finishing touches make your Homemade Spaghetti extra special—garnish generously!
How to Make Homemade Spaghetti
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add your ground beef (or Italian sausage, or both!) and sauté, breaking it up as you go, until completely browned. This should take about six to seven minutes. Browning adds so much flavor, so don’t rush this part. If there’s extra fat in the pan, drain it so your sauce isn’t greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once your meat is browned, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for another two to three minutes, just until the onions become tender and the garlic fills the kitchen with its mouthwatering aroma. This foundation is what makes your Homemade Spaghetti feel truly authentic.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Now, stir in your crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar if you’re using it. Give everything a big stir, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes so all those flavors can meld together. If you like an even richer sauce, go ahead and let it simmer longer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While your sauce works its magic, cook the spaghetti noodles in well-salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente—the pasta should be just tender but with a bit of bite. Once drained, toss the noodles with a splash of olive oil so they don’t stick together.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
The best moment! Pile those tender noodles onto a plate or bowl, ladle over plenty of your homemade meat sauce, and don’t be shy with the garnishes. A shower of grated Parmesan cheese and a scattering of fresh basil leaves provide the perfect finishing touch. Your Homemade Spaghetti is ready to impress.
How to Serve Homemade Spaghetti
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a finishing flourish. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese melts into the warm sauce, adding salty, nutty flavor, while torn fresh basil brightens every bite. You could even serve extra red pepper flakes and cracked black pepper on the side for anyone who likes their Homemade Spaghetti with a little kick.
Side Dishes
Classic garlic bread is always a hit—crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for mopping up every drop of sauce. A crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast and keeps things balanced. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also make delightful partners for a classic spaghetti meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try twirling the spaghetti into little nests for each plate or serving individual portions in wide, shallow bowls. Hosting a family-style dinner? Set the pot of sauce and bowl of noodles right on the table so everyone can help themselves. Or, go all-out and build a spaghetti bar with different topping options like chopped olives, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted garlic for a fully customizable Homemade Spaghetti experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover spaghetti (lucky you!), transfer the noodles and sauce into separate airtight containers. Keeping them apart helps maintain the texture of both pasta and sauce. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for up to four days, ready to provide cozy comfort on a busy day.
Freezing
This sauce freezes beautifully! Cool the sauce completely, ladle it into resealable freezer bags or containers, and tuck away for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, freeze the sauce by itself and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often. If needed, add a splash of water to loosen it up. For the noodles, a quick dip in boiling water or a short zap in the microwave (with a damp paper towel) brings them right back to life. Combine and enjoy Homemade Spaghetti as if it were fresh from the pot.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While traditional Homemade Spaghetti typically uses ground beef, Italian sausage adds spice and depth, and you can swap in ground turkey, pork, or even go meatless by adding extra veggies. Make it your own to suit your family’s tastes.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply leave out the meat and add diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even lentils for a satisfying vegetarian sauce. The base of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs is delicious all on its own.
How can I make my sauce thicker or thinner?
For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer uncovered so the excess moisture evaporates. If it gets too thick, stir in a splash of pasta water or a little extra tomato sauce to loosen it. Adjust to the consistency you love!
What’s the best way to avoid soggy noodles?
Always cook your pasta until just al dente and drain it well. Toss the noodles with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and don’t let them sit too long in the sauce before serving—this keeps textures just right for Homemade Spaghetti.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Definitely! A splash of red wine (about 1/4 cup) added after the onion and garlic melds beautifully with the tomatoes, adding rich depth and complexity. Let it cook down before adding the remaining sauce ingredients for Homemade Spaghetti with extra flair.
Final Thoughts
Nothing brings warmth and happiness to the table quite like a steaming plate of Homemade Spaghetti. Whether you’re new to making your own sauce or a seasoned pasta lover, give this recipe a try and watch it become a go-to favorite. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for this comforting classic time after time!
Print
Homemade Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Homemade Spaghetti with a rich meat sauce that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner. This classic pasta dish is easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For Serving:
- 12 ounces spaghetti noodles
- Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6–7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add diced onion and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let sauce cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Meanwhile, cook spaghetti noodles according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil.
- Serve: Serve hot with sauce spooned over pasta, and top with Parmesan and basil if desired.
Notes
- For a heartier sauce, add diced mushrooms or chopped bell peppers.
- You can also simmer the sauce longer for deeper flavor or use a splash of red wine for richness.
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