The Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce

by

 

The Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Sauce:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For Serving:

  • 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Base:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
    • Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

  2. Cook the Meat:

    • Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

  3. Add Tomato Ingredients:

    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix until combined.

  4. Season the Sauce:

    • Add sugar, oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. Simmer to Perfection:

    • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

  6. Cook the Spaghetti:

    • While the sauce simmers, cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  7. Combine and Serve:

    • Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce until well coated.
    • Serve immediately with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

Tips for the Perfect Sauce:

  • For deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer longer (up to 2 hours), adding water if it gets too thick.
  • Want a creamier sauce? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta just before serving.
  • Add finely chopped carrots or celery for extra sweetness and texture.

Enjoy your hearty, flavorful spaghetti meat sauce! 🍝

Leave a Comment