Spaghetti Meat Sauce Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a timeless, comforting classic that’s rich, savory, and full of hearty flavor. This easy-to-make sauce simmers ground meat with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs to create the perfect topping for spaghetti or any pasta. It’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and endlessly satisfying.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti noodlesground beef or Italian sausagesolive oiloniongarliccrushed tomatoes (canned)tomato pastebeef broth or waterItalian seasoningsalt and pepperbay leafsugar (optional)Parmesan cheese (for serving)fresh basil or parsley (optional)

directions

Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Add ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen flavor.

Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and a pinch of sugar if desired.

Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Discard bay leaf. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve meat sauce over cooked spaghetti and garnish with Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies.

Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage.

Simmer sauce longer for deeper flavor, up to 1 hour.

Use fresh tomatoes when in season for a more homemade touch.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.Freeze sauce (without pasta) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use jarred tomato sauce?

Yes, but add seasonings to enhance flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Omit the meat and use lentils or chopped mushrooms as a substitute.

Do I have to drain the meat?

Yes, to avoid greasy sauce and keep the texture right.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—great for meal prep or freezing extras.

What pasta works best with meat sauce?

Spaghetti is traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine also work well.

Is sugar necessary?

Optional—just a pinch helps balance acidity in the tomatoes.

Can I use fresh garlic and herbs?

Yes, fresh ingredients add even more flavor.

Can I cook the noodles in the sauce?

Not recommended—they may get too soft and dilute the flavor.

How long does homemade sauce last?

Up to 4 days in the fridge, or 3 months in the freezer.

Is this sauce good for lasagna?

Yes, it’s a great base for baked pasta dishes too.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a reliable, delicious dish that never goes out of style. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Serve it over pasta, use it in casseroles, or freeze for later—this classic sauce is a must-have in every kitchen.

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