Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Classic spaghetti with meat sauce brings me back to a bustling Sunday kitchen when I was a kid and my grandmother would simmer a big pot of sauce all day so the whole house would fill with the most mouthwatering aroma and I’d sneak spoonfuls every chance I got and she’d just smile and pretend not to notice. I loved how everyone would gather around the table with laughter and stories flowing as easily as the sauce over the noodles and that memory has stuck with me like a warm, comforting hug.

When I started making my own version, I wanted that same sense of warmth and joy in every bite so I worked on creating a meat sauce that was rich, hearty, and full of layers of flavor and now this classic spaghetti with meat sauce is one of my go-to recipes when I want to make my family feel loved and cozy and I’m so excited for you to make it and create your own delicious memories around the table.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Ground beef – The hearty base that makes the sauce rich and satisfying.
• Onion – Adds sweet, mellow depth to the sauce.
• Garlic – Brings bold, savory flavor.
• Crushed tomatoes – The foundation of a classic, robust sauce.
• Tomato paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Olive oil – Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a silky finish.
• Italian seasoning – Infuses the sauce with classic herb flavors.
• Red pepper flakes – For a gentle kick of heat.
• Salt and black pepper – Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• Fresh basil or parsley – Adds brightness and a final fresh touch.
• Spaghetti – The perfect pasta to hold that delicious sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – For grating on top to finish the dish beautifully.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – For cooking the spaghetti perfectly.
• Large skillet or Dutch oven – To simmer and build the rich meat sauce.
• Wooden spoon – Helps stir the sauce without breaking up the meat too much.
• Colander – To drain the pasta easily.
• Cheese grater – For freshly grating Parmesan on top.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the chopped onion and cook until it turns soft and fragrant, then I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute so the base of the sauce becomes deeply flavorful.

Step 2: Brown the meat

Next, I add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with my spoon as it cooks. I cook until it’s browned all over, making sure there are no large clumps left.

Step 3: Add tomato ingredients

I stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute to develop its rich taste. Then, I add the crushed tomatoes along with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. I mix everything until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer the sauce

I reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 20–30 minutes so all the flavors can meld together beautifully. If I have more time, I let it go even longer for deeper flavor.

Step 5: Cook the spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain it using a colander.

Step 6: Combine and finish

I toss the hot spaghetti with a bit of the sauce to coat it, then plate it up generously and top with extra meat sauce. I finish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of basil or parsley.

Tips

If you want to make it extra special, I recommend using a mix of ground beef and pork for extra depth of flavor. I sometimes add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers for even more richness. You can also make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ways to Serve

I love serving classic spaghetti with meat sauce alongside a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread to soak up every bit of sauce. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter for a full Italian inspired meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze classic spaghetti with meat sauce?

Yes! You can freeze the meat sauce (without pasta) in an airtight container for up to 3 months and just thaw and reheat when needed.

Can I make this sauce vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can use plant-based ground meat or even lentils for a hearty vegetarian option in classic spaghetti with meat sauce.

How long will leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, leftovers will keep for up to 4 days.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this classic spaghetti with meat sauce a try! It’s such a comforting, timeless dish that always brings smiles to the table. Let me know how it turns out for you and feel free to share your photos or tips below! And don’t forget to save this recipe so you can make it again and again.

Happy Cooking!