Introduction
Old-school spaghetti with ground beef is a nostalgic, comforting dish that keeps things simple yet flavorful.
Using basic pantry staples like ground beef, crushed tomatoes, and classic Italian seasonings, this recipe brings out rich, bold flavors without the need for sausage or other additions.
Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this spaghetti recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat:
1 lb (450g) spaghetti
1 lb (450g) ground beef
Sauce Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
Seasonings:
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1.Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce if needed.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon.
Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red chili flakes (if using) to the skillet.
Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce in the skillet.
Toss until the spaghetti is evenly coated with the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Let it sit on low heat for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy the hearty flavors of this classic dish.
Conclusion
This old-school spaghetti with ground beef is a timeless recipe that delivers warmth and comfort in every bite.
The simplicity of the ingredients, paired with the rich, hearty sauce, makes it a dish that appeals to all ages.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a quick meal after a busy day, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
Make it once, and it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!