Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe
User Reviews
4.4
Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Recipe
Description
Ground beef is browned with salt over high heat to develop flavor, then softened onions and garlic join the pot. Crushed tomatoes, black pepper, water, and fresh basil create a sauce in which the broken spaghetti is submerged. The covered pot simmers over medium-low heat without stirring, allowing the pasta to cook by absorbing the flavorful tomato and meat broth. Cooking takes approximately 17-20 minutes depending on the pasta shape.
The method produces spaghetti coated well with a balanced meat and tomato sauce enriched by garlic and fresh basil. The pasta absorbs moisture and seasoning directly in the pot, streamlining preparation and cleanup. Grated Parmesan cheese can be added when serving for extra savory detail.
This recipe is flexible in spaghetti type and seasoning. Timing adjustments may be necessary with different pasta shapes or brands to achieve tender noodles without overcooking. It serves as a hearty classic meal combining fundamental ingredients in an efficient cooking process.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 90% lean
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ounce crushed tomatoes I love Tuttorosso, canned
- black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups water
- 4 basil plus optional more for garnish, torn leaves
- 10 ounces spaghetti broken in half (I love Delallo, wheat or gluten-free
- Parmesan Cheese optional for serving, grated
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over high heat. (If your pot is not heavy, the sauce may burn.)
- When hot add the beef and salt and cook, breaking up about 3 minutes.
- Add the onions, and garlic and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, black pepper, water and basil and stir, add the spaghetti, making sure the liquid covers everything without stirring.
- Cover and cook medium-low heat (do not open) until the water is absorbed and the pasta is cooked, about 17 to 20 minutes.
- Serve topped with grated cheese if desired!
Notes
- Thin spaghetti was used here; cooking time might change with different pasta shapes or brands.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 5servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 427 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 11/2 cups | |
| Calories | 427kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 55g | 18% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Fat | 10.5g | 16% |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g | 18% |
| Cholesterol | 59mg | 20% |
| Sodium | 567mg | 24% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugar | 9g | 18% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.