Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

  • Ground beef: 1 lb (about 450g)
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Canned crushed tomatoes: 28 oz (about 800g)
  • Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
  • Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Salt and pepper: to taste
  • Red wine: 1/2 cup (optional, can enhance flavor)

For the Spaghetti:

  • Spaghetti noodles: 1 lb (about 450g)
  • Salt: for boiling water

Optional for Serving:

  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves: for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Ground Beef:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Simmer the Sauce:
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red wine (if using). If the sauce is too acidic, a teaspoon of sugar can be added to balance the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for at least 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
  3. Cook the Spaghetti:
    • While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente.
    • Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
  4. Combine and Serve:
    • You can either toss the spaghetti with the sauce in the pot or serve the noodles on plates and spoon the sauce over the top.
    • Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
  • Author: Maria