Spaghetti and meat sauce is a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. This recipe combines hearty ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich tomatoes to create a sauce that clings perfectly to spaghetti noodles. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this spaghetti and meat sauce recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound 85% lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 1 29-ounce can diced tomatoes
- 1 29-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 2 7-ounce cans sliced mushrooms
- 1 15-ounce can beef broth
- 4-6 whole cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or 4 teaspoons dried
- 1 teaspoon basil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- For the Spaghetti:
- 1 pound dried spaghetti noodles
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
Making the Meat Sauce
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic to the pot with the browned ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Tomatoes and Mushrooms: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add the sliced mushrooms and mix well to combine.
- Incorporate the Broth and Spices: Pour in the beef broth and add the whole cloves, bay leaves, sugar, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer the sauce simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Cooking the Spaghetti
- Cook the Spaghetti: About 15 minutes before the sauce is ready, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
Serving the Dish
- Combine and Serve: Remove the bay leaves and whole cloves from the meat sauce. Serve the sauce over the cooked spaghetti noodles and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Cook’s Notes
- Cloves and Bay Leaves: These spices add depth to the sauce but should be removed before serving. Counting them as you put them in can help ensure you remove them all.
- Ground Beef Options: For a leaner sauce, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Variations
Spicy Meat Sauce
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño pepper when sautéing the onions and celery for a spicy kick.
Meatless Sauce
- Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use extra vegetables like eggplant and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
Slow Cooker Method
- Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed. Transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a hands-off approach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I freeze the meat sauce?
- Yes, you can freeze the meat sauce. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Simply use gluten-free spaghetti noodles and ensure all canned ingredients, like tomato paste and beef broth, are gluten-free.
- What can I use instead of beef broth?
- You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water in a pinch. However, beef broth adds a richer flavor to the sauce.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
- Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need about 10-12 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Fresh tomatoes will add a lighter, fresher flavor to the sauce.
- How long can I store leftovers?
- Leftover meat sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Spaghetti and meat sauce is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests. By following this simple recipe, you’ll create a delicious spaghetti and meat sauce that everyone will love. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing a homemade meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
