tomato sauce ground beef recipe

The Best tomato sauce ground beef recipe

I’ve been making this tomato sauce ground beef recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My family loves it because it’s easy to make and always tastes great. I’ve made it for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, and even as a special occasion meal.

The best part is that it’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze. The recipe comes from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that’s been passed down through generations of home cooks.

The key to this recipe is the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender. I like to serve it with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. The kids love it because it’s hearty and filling, and my husband appreciates the fact that it’s a one-dish meal that doesn’t leave a mess in the kitchen.

I’ve experimented with different types of ground beef over the years, but I find that 80/20 works best for this recipe. You can also use leaner ground beef if you prefer, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. The tomato sauce adds a rich flavor to the dish, and I like to use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste.

I’ve tried using fresh tomatoes, but they don’t hold up as well in this recipe. One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s so versatile. You can serve it as is, or add your favorite toppings such as grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley.

It’s also a great base for other dishes, such as spaghetti Bolognese or meatball subs. I’ve made this recipe for my family countless times over the years, and it never fails to impress. It’s a comforting meal that fills our bellies and warms our hearts.

Classic Beef Tomato Sauce

4.7 from 685 votes

A hearty and comforting dish featuring ground beef in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for pasta or as a base for other recipes.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti
salt for pasta water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3Add ground beef to the skillet.
4Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5Drain excess fat.
6Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
7Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
8Let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
9The sauce should have a rich, tomato aroma and the beef should be tender.
10While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
11Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
12Drain and set aside.
13Serve the beef tomato sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
14Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Pot
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. For a healthier option, use lean ground beef and whole wheat pasta.

Watch Video Of How Classic Beef Tomato Sauce Works

This tomato sauce ground beef recipe is always a good idea for any occasion.

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution, this dish never fails to impress.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it reheats – simply transfer the cooked meat and sauce to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Tomato Sauce

What type of ground beef should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for this recipe, as it provides a good balance of flavor and moisture. You can also use leaner ground beef if you prefer, but keep in mind that it may affect the cooking time.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

No, fresh tomatoes don’t hold up well in this recipe due to their high water content. Canned tomatoes are a better choice because they’re concentrated and have less water.

How long does the cooking process take?

The slow cooking process takes about 1-2 hours on low heat or 30-45 minutes on high heat. You can also cook it in a pressure cooker for faster results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

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