pasta meat sauce recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best pasta meat sauce recipe

I’ve been making this pasta meat sauce recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

I love how the rich, meaty sauce coats the pasta, making each bite feel like a warm hug on a cold day. My kids devour it, and I appreciate how it’s a great way to get them to eat their veggies – they don’t even notice the hidden spinach in the sauce!

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Sunday dinner. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so I can make a big batch and stash some away for later.

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it’s incredibly healthy – the ground beef is lean, and the tomato sauce is made from fresh tomatoes. We enjoy it with some crusty bread on the side, but you can also serve it with garlic knots or a green salad for a complete meal.

My family loves when I serve this up with some grated Parmesan cheese on top – it adds just the right amount of salty goodness.

Classic Pasta with Meat Sauce

4.6 from 692 votes

A hearty pasta dish featuring a rich meat sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic spices for a flavorful sauce served over al dente pasta.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti

For the Meat Sauce

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3The pasta should be tender but firm to the bite.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
7The onions should be lightly golden.
8Add ground beef to the skillet, cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
9Break up any lumps with a wooden spoon.
10Drain excess fat if necessary.
11Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
12Reduce heat to low, let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
13The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.
14Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
15If the sauce is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
16Serve the meat sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
17Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
18Enjoy your classic pasta with meat sauce.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes to taste. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Classic Pasta with Meat Sauce Works

This pasta meat sauce recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

It’s easy to make in large batches and freezes beautifully, so feel free to stock up and enjoy throughout the month.

We love serving this up with some grated Parmesan cheese on top and some crusty bread on the side – it makes for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta with Meat Sauce

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

This recipe works well with any type of pasta you like, but I find that long, thin shapes like spaghetti or angel hair work best. You can also use penne or rigatoni if you prefer.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: How do I store leftover pasta meat sauce?

You can store leftover pasta meat sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the pasta and store it separately from the sauce until you’re ready to serve.

Q: What are some good sides to serve with this recipe?

Serve this pasta meat sauce with some crusty bread on the side, or try pairing it with a simple green salad or garlic knots for added flavor and texture.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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