There’s nothing quite like a plate of spaghetti with a rich, flavorful meat sauce. This dish is a classic comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. The Best Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe combines the perfect balance of ground beef and Italian sausage, aromatic vegetables, and a medley of tomatoes, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to al dente spaghetti. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why It Deserves a Spot
This spaghetti and meat sauce recipe stands out for its depth of flavor and simplicity. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage provides a hearty foundation, while the garlic and onions caramelize to add sweetness and complexity. Moreover, the use of fresh basil elevates the dish, making it a celebration of Italian cuisine right in your kitchen. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together around the dinner table.
What You’ll Gather
- 3 tablespoons butter – For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1 extra-large red onion – Peeled and diced (about 2 cups).
- 7-8 cloves garlic – Minced for aromatic flavor.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage – Adds a spicy kick and depth.
- 1 pound ground beef – A classic choice for meat sauce.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning – For that quintessential Italian flavor.
- 2 (28-ounce) cans tomato sauce – The base of the sauce.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes – Provides texture and body.
- 1 cup chopped fresh basil – For a fresh, vibrant finish.
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar – To balance acidity, if needed.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Essential Tools for Success
- Large skillet – For browning the meat and sautéing vegetables.
- Large pot – To cook the spaghetti and combine the sauce.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring, ensuring even cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping vegetables.
Best Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe: How It’s Done
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting the 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the diced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the 1 pound of ground Italian sausage and 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Allow it to brown completely, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Season It Up
Once the meat is browned, sprinkle in the 1 tablespoon of dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to coat the meat and vegetables. This step infuses the dish with that classic Italian aroma.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the two cans of tomato sauce and the can of crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The mixture should be thick and rich at this point.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
After simmering, taste your sauce. If it’s too acidic, add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar to balance the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Basil
Just before serving, stir in the 1 cup of chopped fresh basil. This adds a vibrant note to the sauce and enhances its freshness.
Step 8: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, place a portion of spaghetti on a plate, ladle the meat sauce on top, and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Health-Conscious Tweaks
- Whole Wheat Spaghetti: Swap regular spaghetti for whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Lean Ground Meat: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage to reduce fat content.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Sneak in finely chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Low-Sodium Tomato Products: Opt for low-sodium tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes to control salt intake.
Behind the Recipe
This Best Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe is more than just a way to enjoy pasta; it’s about bringing comfort and joy to your dining experience. Inspired by traditional Italian cooking, this recipe has been perfected over the years, balancing the richness of the meat with the freshness of herbs and tomatoes. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the buttery sautéed onions to the vibrant basil, making every bite a delightful journey through flavor.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. You can also freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Your Top Questions
Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage if you prefer a lighter version, or use a mix of your favorite meats.
How can I make this sauce vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also use lentils for added protein.
What can I serve with spaghetti and meat sauce?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes! The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after a day in the fridge.
Time to Try It
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on the Best Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only a staple in many households but also a canvas for your creativity. Enjoy the process, share it with loved ones, and most importantly, savor every savory bite. Happy cooking!
Best Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics - Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 2: Brown the Meat - Add the ground Italian sausage and ground beef to the skillet. Brown completely, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3: Season It Up - Once the meat is browned, sprinkle in the oregano or Italian seasoning and stir to coat the meat and vegetables.
- Step 4: Add the Tomatoes - Pour in the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine.
- Step 5: Let It Simmer - Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 6: Taste and Adjust - Taste the sauce and add sugar if it's too acidic. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Step 7: Finish with Fresh Basil - Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.
- Step 8: Cook the Spaghetti - Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water if desired.
- Step 9: Serve and Enjoy - Place spaghetti on a plate, ladle meat sauce on top, and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This sauce can be made ahead of time; flavors improve after a day in the fridge.
