Few things are as comforting and satisfying as a hearty bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich, homemade meat sauce. This Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef is the perfect balance of savory, aromatic, and slightly sweet flavors. Made with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves classic Italian-inspired dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Busy Weeknights: This recipe is easy to make with minimal hands-on time.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that are often already in your pantry.
- Rich & Flavorful: Slow-simmered to develop deep, robust flavors.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping, or making a big batch to freeze for later, this spaghetti sauce is a versatile and reliable go-to meal.
Ingredients Needed
To make this delicious spaghetti sauce, you will need:
- 1 pound ground beef – Adds heartiness and richness to the sauce.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Provides a savory depth of flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the sauce with aromatic warmth.
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced – Adds a slight sweetness and texture contrast.
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes – Provides the base of the sauce with a juicy, tangy taste.
- 1 (16-ounce) can tomato sauce – Adds thickness and a smooth texture.
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano – Brings in an earthy, herby essence.
- 2 teaspoons dried basil – Complements the oregano with a slightly sweet, peppery note.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a mild kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients and chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the green bell pepper to ensure a smooth cooking process.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Cook and stir for about 5 to 7 minutes until the meat is browned and crumbly, and the vegetables are tender. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add the Tomato Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine the ingredients into a uniform sauce.
4. Season and Simmer
Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the hot spaghetti sauce over cooked pasta of your choice, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or skillet
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Can opener
Tips for the Best Spaghetti Sauce
- Use Fresh Herbs: If available, substitute dried oregano and basil with fresh ones for a more vibrant taste.
- Make It Spicier: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Enhance the Flavor: A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can add extra depth.
- Boost the Umami: Stir in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of soy sauce for a richer taste.
- Thicker Sauce: Let it simmer longer, or add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste.
Variations and Substitutions
- Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
What to Serve with Spaghetti Sauce
Pair this rich spaghetti sauce with:
- Classic Spaghetti or Pasta: Angel hair, fettuccine, or penne work well.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the sauce.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with Italian dressing balances the richness.
- Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot complements the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! This sauce actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Use about 6-8 fresh Roma tomatoes, peeled and chopped. You may need to simmer a bit longer to achieve the right consistency.
How can I make it less acidic?
A pinch of sugar or a small grated carrot can help balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This sauce is great for batch cooking. Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger pot.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef is a staple recipe that you’ll find yourself making again and again. With its rich flavors, simple ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
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