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Easy Homemade Spaghetti Meat Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 78 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This easy homemade spaghetti meat sauce is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Made with ground beef, tomatoes, and simple pantry spices, it simmers into the perfect topping for pasta. Ideal for busy weeknights or Sunday family dinners, this classic sauce is a comforting and flavorful choice that pairs perfectly with cooked spaghetti.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup water or beef broth

To Serve

  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
  • Cooked spaghetti

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary to keep the sauce from becoming oily.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the water or beef broth to loosen the sauce slightly. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the sauce to thicken and develop flavor.
  5. Adjust and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • You can double the recipe and freeze any extra sauce for up to 3 months for easy future meals.
  • Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or grated carrots for extra vegetables and nutrition.
  • Parmesan cheese makes a delicious topping when serving the sauce over pasta.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/easy-homemade-spaghetti-meat-sauce-recipe/