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Quick Homemade Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
When you need a comforting bowl of pasta without simmering a ragu all afternoon, this hearty meat sauce hits the spot. Ground beef and diced onions build a savory base, while a double dose of tomato sauce and paste creates a rich, thick texture. Dried basil and oregano bring classic Italian-inspired flavor right from your pantry. The sauce bubbles away gently while the pasta boils, so you aren't stuck standing over the stove. It's a straightforward, satisfying meal that tastes like it cooked much longer than it actually did.
Ingredients
- 7-oz. pkg. spaghetti, uncooked
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 c. onion, diced
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 8-oz. cans tomato sauce
- 6-oz. can tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 to 3 T. dried basil
- 1 to 2 t. dried oregano
Instructions
- 1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions, then drain well.
- 2While the pasta cooks, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, then drain off any excess fat. Removing the grease prevents the final sauce from separating and becoming oily.
- 3Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. If the mixture seems too thick, pour in a splash of water. Turn the heat down to low.
- 4Let the sauce simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Spoon the hot meat sauce directly over the cooked spaghetti.
Notes
- Storage: Keep leftover sauce and pasta in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: The meat sauce freezes exceptionally well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the meat sauce a day in advance. The flavors actually deepen after a night in the fridge.
- Tip: Toss the drained pasta with a small drizzle of olive oil to keep the noodles from clumping while the sauce finishes simmering.