If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s endlessly satisfying, this Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe checks every box. Imagine twirls of al dente spaghetti bathed in a rich, herb-scented tomato sauce, studded with tender morsels of ground beef and finished with a generous shower of grated Parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that brings friends and family to the table with smiles, and it always tastes like home. Brimming with flavor and ready in under an hour, this is the Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity — all you need are a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh touches. Every ingredient plays its own delicious role, from adding depth to the sauce to making the finished dish shine.

Ground beef: The heartiness of ground beef sets the savory tone and makes this sauce so filling.
Onion (diced): Adds delicate sweetness and helps build a flavorful base for the sauce.
Garlic cloves (minced): Essential for infusing the sauce with an irresistible aroma and classic Italian flavor.
Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): The foundation of your sauce — go for good quality for a fresher taste.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor thickens the sauce and deepens the color beautifully.
Dried oregano: Adds a hint of earthy, aromatic flavor that screams old-school comfort.
Dried basil: Lends just the right amount of herby brightness to round out the sauce.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste — a little goes a long way in bringing out all the flavors.
Spaghetti: Classic long pasta that captures just the right amount of meat sauce in each bite.
Grated Parmesan: The finishing touch for a salty, nutty kick. Freshly grated always tastes best!

How to Make Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef, Onion, and Garlic

Start by setting a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic all at once. Stir frequently, breaking up the beef as it cooks, until it’s fully browned and the onions are translucent and soft. You’ll immediately notice savory, cozy aromas wafting through your kitchen. If there’s excess fat, just drain it off so your sauce isn’t greasy.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Next, bring even more flavor to the skillet by stirring in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Give everything a good mix so the tomato paste blends with the beef, then sprinkle in salt and pepper to your liking. This step is where your sauce begins to come alive, taking on that deep, savory complexity that makes the Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe so special.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Let your sauce simmer gently on low heat for about 20 minutes. This extra time allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir it occasionally and take a little taste — now is the perfect moment to adjust seasonings if needed. The difference after simmering is remarkable; everything tastes absolutely harmonious.

Step 4: Cook and Drain the Spaghetti

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until perfectly al dente. Drain well. There’s something magical about perfectly cooked pasta paired with robust meat sauce — don’t skip salting the water, it adds essential flavor to the noodles!

Step 5: Toss Together & Serve

Add the freshly cooked spaghetti straight into the skillet with that rich meat sauce, then toss until every strand is coated. This helps the pasta absorb just enough sauce for the best flavor in every twirl. Plate up generous portions and top each with as much grated Parmesan as your heart desires — the classic finish for an unbeatable Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe experience.

How to Serve Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate a good garnish! A sprinkle of fresh basil or even finely chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, while extra Parmesan cheese is always welcome. If you love a touch of heat, try a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

This Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but a crisp green salad and warm, buttery garlic bread make it company-worthy. For something lighter, serve with simple roasted vegetables, or go classic with a side of Caesar salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the spaghetti family-style in a big, shallow bowl so everyone can help themselves, or try plating in individual nests for a restaurant-style look. For an elegant touch, twist each serving into a tall tangle with tongs and tuck basil leaves alongside.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the leftover spaghetti cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for speedy, delicious lunches or next-day dinners.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, the meat sauce freezes like a dream! Simply portion any extra sauce into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the spaghetti and sauce together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if it looks dry. Stir occasionally until everything is piping hot, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for this Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, you can try linguine, fettuccine, or even penne — the sauce clings beautifully to many shapes. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen. Cook pasta fresh for the best texture, then reheat the sauce and combine them just before serving.

How can I make this Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe gluten-free?

Swap the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Most grocery stores carry several options, and the meat sauce is naturally gluten-free!

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely — diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini are all delicious additions. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for even more flavor and nutrition.

What ground meat can I use if I don’t have beef?

Turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based crumbled meat substitute all work well in the Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe. Each will bring a slightly different nuance, so feel free to experiment!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about a bowl of Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe that never fails to bring comfort and joy, no matter the occasion. I hope this version becomes your new family favorite — hearty, flavorful, and so satisfying. Give it a try soon and share the love around your own table!