Here’s a classic, easy Spaghetti with Ground Beef recipe—savory, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners 🍝
Spaghetti with Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz / 680 g) jar of spaghetti or marinara sauce (or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft, 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Brown the meat: Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add sauce & seasoning: Stir in spaghetti sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–15 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Combine with pasta: Either toss cooked spaghetti in the sauce, or serve the sauce over the pasta on individual plates.
- Serve: Top with grated Parmesan and garnish with parsley if desired.
Tips
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of red wine while simmering the sauce.
- Vegetable boost: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with the onions.
- Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella into the sauce before serving.
Variations
- Italian-style: Use fresh basil, oregano, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
- Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- One-pot version: Cook pasta directly in sauce with extra water or broth for less cleanup.
If you want, I can give a super quick 20-minute version that’s perfect for busy nights.
