🍝 Spaghetti with Ground Beef Sauce
👩🍳 Serves: 4–6
(Ready in about 30–40 minutes)
🧾 Ingredients
For the beef sauce:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3–4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (28 oz / 796g) can crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
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2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for depth)
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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½ tsp sugar (balances acidity)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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2 tbsp olive oil
For the pasta:
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12 oz (340g) spaghetti
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Salt for pasta water
Optional add-ins:
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¼ cup red wine (add after browning the beef)
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1 grated carrot (adds natural sweetness)
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Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
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Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for topping
🔪 Instructions
1. Cook the pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Make the beef sauce:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
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Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
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Add ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon.
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(Optional: Drain excess fat for a leaner sauce.)
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Stir in tomato paste (if using), then crushed tomatoes.
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Add oregano, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
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Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of pasta water if too thick.
3. Combine & serve:
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Toss cooked spaghetti with the beef sauce in the pan, or serve the sauce on top.
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Garnish with fresh herbs and a generous sprinkle of grated cheese.
🍴 Serving Suggestions:
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Add a side of garlic bread and a green salad.
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Pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine (like Chianti or Merlot).