simple ground beef spaghetti recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best simple ground beef spaghetti recipe

I’ve been making this simple ground beef spaghetti recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. It’s a classic dish that never goes out of style, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and cooking skills. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always excited to dig in when this dish is on the menu.

The combination of tender ground beef, flavorful tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti is a winning combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. As a home cook, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – it’s just as good served with garlic bread or over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it a great meal prep solution for those busy days when you need something quick and easy. I’ve tried various iterations of this recipe over the years, but this one remains my go-to – the key to its success lies in using high-quality ingredients and taking your time to let the flavors meld together.

Simple Ground Beef Spaghetti

4.7 from 658 votes

A classic and comforting dish featuring ground beef in a savory tomato sauce served over spaghetti. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (8 oz) tomato paste
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
2 tbsp olive oil
8 oz spaghetti

Equipment

Large skillet
Pot
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2Add ground beef to the skillet.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4Drain excess fat and remove beef from skillet.
5In the same skillet, add diced onion.
6Cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
7Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
8Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
9Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil.
10Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
11While the sauce is simmering, cook spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
12Drain the spaghetti using a colander and set aside.
13Serve the ground beef sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
14Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Cooking pan or pot
Spatula or wooden spoon

📊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 extra heat. For a creamier sauce, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream before serving.

This simple ground beef spaghetti recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too.

Not only is it easy to make and delicious to eat, but it’s also incredibly versatile – whether you serve it with garlic bread or as a low-carb option over zucchini noodles.

And let’s not forget about its impressive storage capabilities – with proper freezing techniques, you can enjoy this comforting dish all year round.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Spaghetti

Q: What type of ground beef should I use?

A: I recommend using lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) for this recipe, as it will produce a more tender final product. You can also use a combination of beef and pork if you prefer a richer flavor.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?

A: While you can use pre-cooked ground beef, keep in mind that it will affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish. If you choose to go this route, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy?

A: To avoid mushy spaghetti, cook it al dente (tender but still firm) and then toss it with the tomato sauce immediately after draining. This will help prevent excess moisture from building up.

Q: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if you prefer a leaner protein option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on your chosen protein’s cooking requirements.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftover spaghetti?

A: Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. When reheating, make sure to add some fresh herbs like parsley or basil to give it a boost of flavor.

Similar Posts