Introduction
Spaghetti with meat sauce is a classic dish that combines tender pasta with a rich and flavorful meat sauce. This hearty meal is loved by many, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. With a blend of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious pasta dish that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground beef: 1 pound
Onion: 1 medium, chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Crushed tomatoes: 28 ounces
Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Spaghetti: 8 ounces
Parmesan cheese: for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients needed for the spaghetti meat sauce. Ensure that you have fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Break it apart as it cooks for even browning.
Add Aromatics
Once the meat is browned, add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Add Tomato Components
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and diced tomatoes. Mix thoroughly to combine with the meat and aromatics.
Season the Sauce
Add dried herbs such as oregano, basil, and any other preferred seasonings. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring everything together.
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta when done.
Combine Sauce and Spaghetti
Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, combine it with the meat sauce in the skillet. Toss to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
Serve the Dish
Plate the spaghetti meat sauce and garnish with grated cheese or fresh herbs, as preferred. Serve hot and enjoy your meal.
Notes
Choose Your Meat
Feel free to use a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor, or substitute with turkey or vegetarian alternatives based on your preference.
Make-Ahead Options
The meat sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for longer storage.
Adjusting Spice Levels
For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. The dish pairs well with a variety of wines as well.
Cook techniques
Choosing the Right Meat
Select ground beef with a good fat content for a richer flavor and texture in your sauce.
Cooking the Meat
Brown the meat thoroughly in a hot pan to develop a deeper flavor through the Maillard reaction.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté onions, garlic, and other aromatics in the same pot after the meat to build a layered flavor base.
Deglazing the Pan
Use wine or broth to deglaze the pan after browning the meat, scraping up the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Simmering the Sauce
Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors and achieve a thicker consistency.
Balancing Flavors
Taste the sauce midway through cooking and adjust with salt, pepper, or herbs to balance and enrich the flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or pork based on your preference.
How long should I simmer the sauce?
Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes, but longer simmering, up to several hours, can deepen the flavors even further.
Should I add sugar to reduce acidity?
Adding a small amount of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, but taste before deciding.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.
What type of pasta is best for this sauce?
Spaghetti is traditional, but any pasta that can hold the sauce well, such as fettuccine or penne, can be used.
Conclusion
With its rich flavor and hearty texture, spaghetti with meat sauce is a timeless dish that can bring comfort and satisfaction to your dining table. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe offers versatility in ingredients and serving styles. Enjoy experimenting with variations to make it uniquely your own.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Mushroom Sauce
Replace the meat with a medley of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic for a hearty vegetarian alternative that maintains the richness of the original dish.
Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
Add chili flakes and fresh basil to your sauce for a spicy kick that will awaken your taste buds, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their pasta.
Meatball Variation
Incorporate homemade or store-bought meatballs into your spaghetti for a fun twist that adds flavor and texture, along with a classic feel.
Seafood Pasta
Swap the meat sauce for a blend of shrimp and scallops in a light garlic and olive oil sauce, creating a fresh and vibrant seafood pasta dish.
Creamy Alfredo Sauce
For a rich and creamy alternative, try using an Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, and parmesan cheese, perfect for those who prefer a luscious sauce over a traditional meat sauce.
Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Mix your spaghetti and meat sauce with ricotta and mozzarella cheese, then bake until golden and bubbly for a comforting casserole that’s great for leftovers.
