Spaghetti with ground beef sauce

Here’s a classic, comforting recipe for Spaghetti with Ground Beef Sauce — hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

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🍝 Spaghetti with Ground Beef Sauce

Ingredients:

• 12 oz – 1 lb spaghetti

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Olive oil, for cooking

• Grated Parmesan, for serving

• Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)

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🔥 Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef:

   • In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat.

   • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add Onion & Garlic:

   • Stir in chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.

   • Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

4. Add Tomatoes & Seasonings:

   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar.

   • Simmer uncovered on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and deepen in flavor.

5. Combine & Serve:

   • Toss cooked spaghetti with the sauce, or spoon sauce on top of plated pasta.

   • Top with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

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🍽 Variations:

• Add a splash of red wine for richness during the simmering step.

• Stir in mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers with the onions for a veggie boost.

• Swap beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.

Want a baked version (like spaghetti casserole) or a one-pot method?