ground beef spaghetti recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ground beef spaghetti recipe

I’ve been making this ground beef spaghetti recipe for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorites. It’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to hit the spot.

The first time I made it, I was blown away by how easy it was to prepare and how delicious it turned out. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit with them.

They love getting their hands dirty and mixing the ground beef with the spaghetti sauce. I’m always happy to see them enjoying a meal that’s not only tasty but also good for them.

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday or birthday party. It’s also great for meal prep because you can make a big batch of the sauce and freeze it for later use.

Plus, using ground beef makes it an affordable option for families on a budget.

Classic Ground Beef Spaghetti

4.8 from 1350 votes

A hearty and satisfying spaghetti dish with a rich meat sauce made from ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. This easy weeknight dinner comes together in under an hour and is perfect for feeding the whole family.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Spaghetti

12 oz spaghetti
1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Meat Sauce

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti in a colander.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
6The beef should have a deep brown color with some crispy bits.
7Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet.
8Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and softened, about 4 minutes.
9Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
10Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using.
11Stir well to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
12Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
13Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
14Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss with tongs to coat evenly in the sauce.
15If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
16Serve the spaghetti immediately in warmed bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
17The pasta should be glossy with sauce and the cheese should melt slightly on contact.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet or Dutch oven
Colander
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons
Grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a leaner sauce, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add finely chopped carrots or bell peppers to the sauce for extra vegetables. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Classic Ground Beef Spaghetti Works

This ground beef spaghetti recipe is one I turn to again and again because it is reliable and always delicious. It works for a casual family dinner or a larger gathering when you need to feed a crowd without stress. I love that I can prep most of it ahead and just boil the pasta at the last minute.

To store leftovers, let the sauce and pasta cool separately then combine them in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, I add a splash of water or broth to the pan and warm it over medium heat until bubbling.

You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. If you want to serve it again later in the week, try spooning the leftovers over a baked potato or mixing them with scrambled eggs for a quick breakfast. This dish truly keeps giving and I never get tired of it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Spaghetti

What is the best type of ground beef to use in this recipe?

I prefer to use lean ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20. This ensures that the dish remains moist without being too greasy. If you’re looking for an even leaner option, you can try using grass-fed ground beef or leaner alternatives like turkey or chicken.

How long does the sauce simmer before it’s ready?

The sauce should simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together and thicken slightly. You can speed up the process by adding a bit of tomato paste or reducing the amount of liquid in the sauce.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance by cooking the spaghetti and meat mixture separately and then assembling everything just before serving. This way, you can have all your ingredients prepped ahead of time and save some time during meal prep.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.

Can I substitute other types of pasta?

While traditional spaghetti is the best choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of pasta like linguine or fettuccine if you prefer.

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