There’s just something magical about a big plate of spaghetti topped with a rich, savory beef sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold night or the perfect meal to share with friends and family. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. The best part? You can easily adjust it to suit your taste, whether you’re into bold, spicy flavors or something more mild. So, let’s get cooking!
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Why You’ll Love Spaghetti with Beef Sauce
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
- Ground Beef: The hearty, meaty base that gives this sauce its rich flavor. You can use lean beef or something with a little more fat for a juicier sauce.
- Spaghetti: A classic! Long, tender pasta that pairs perfectly with the savory beef sauce.
- Tomato Sauce: Adds the perfect amount of tang and sweetness to balance out the richness of the beef.
- Onions: Finely chopped for that sweet, savory foundation that brings the whole dish together.
- Garlic: Freshly minced, adding depth and a little kick to the sauce.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, giving them that perfect golden caramelization.
- Italian Seasoning: A must-have blend of herbs to give your sauce that authentic Italian flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste—seasoning is key to making everything pop!
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and crumbled. Make sure to break it up as it cooks for a nice, even texture.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onions become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onions and deepens the flavor.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, so all those flavors have time to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
5. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti in with the beef sauce until it’s fully coated. You can also add a little of the pasta cooking water if you want a silkier sauce.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 550
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Spaghetti with Beef Sauce
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
- Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
- As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
- Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
- Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute ground beef with ground turkey?
A1: Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a lighter option and works perfectly in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it might be a little less rich than beef.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving. Just reheat and cook your spaghetti when you’re ready to eat.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes, you can! Simply freeze the beef sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! This recipe is easy to scale up, and it makes a great batch meal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Q7: Can I make it spicier?
A7: Yes! Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for an extra kick.
Q8: Can I add veggies to the sauce?
A8: Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for added flavor and nutrients.
Q9: How can I make this dish more flavorful?
A9: Try simmering the sauce for a little longer to intensify the flavors, or add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for depth.
Q10: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A10: Yes, gluten-free pasta works just as well in this recipe, so feel free to make it a gluten-free option!
Conclusion
This spaghetti with beef sauce is the kind of dish that never fails to impress. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, this recipe has got your back. So, grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some delicious memories together!
Print
Spaghetti with Beef Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in this hearty and flavorful spaghetti recipe featuring a rich beef and tomato sauce, crispy bacon, and a creamy roux. Perfect for a comforting dinner that combines the best of Italian-inspired flavors
Ingredients
- For the Spaghetti and Sauce:
- 300 g spaghetti
- 200 g bacon, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 700 g minced beef
- 200 g tomato sauce
- For the Creamy Roux:
- 40 g butter
- 30 g flour
- 500 ml milk
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Base:
Dice the bacon, onion, and garlic. - Cook the Bacon:
In a large pan, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. - Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same pan, sauté the diced onion and garlic until softened. - Cook the Beef:
Add the minced beef to the pan and cook until browned. - Simmer the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors. - Make the Roux:
In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens. - Combine the Sauces:
Stir the creamy roux into the beef and tomato mixture until well combined. - Toss the Spaghetti:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and mix thoroughly to coat. - Serve:
Plate the spaghetti and top with crispy bacon. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley on top before serving.
- Use smoked bacon for a deeper, richer taste.
- Substitute spaghetti with your preferred pasta variety, such as fettuccine or penne.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 115mg