Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb (500g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz / 400g) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, reduces acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Make the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic (and bell pepper if using) and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Tomatoes & Seasoning
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Add salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, paprika, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes until thick and flavorful.
Combine
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
OR - Serve spaghetti on plates and spoon the sauce on top.
To Serve
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!