Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe

There’s something magical about a steaming plate of spaghetti coated in rich, hearty meat sauce. It’s classic, comforting, and never goes out of style. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving the nostalgic flavors of a traditional Italian-American dish, this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe is here to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Timeless Flavor: Packed with savory, well-balanced flavors that remind you of home.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh vegetables for a straightforward yet delicious dish.
• Customizable: Perfect as is, but also a great canvas for adding your favorite veggies or spices.
• Family-Friendly: A meal everyone will enjoy, from picky eaters to pasta aficionados.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef 🥩: Adds a hearty, flavorful base.
• 1 small onion, diced 🧅: Sweetens the sauce as it cooks.
• 1/2 cup green bell peppers, diced 🫑: Offers a subtle crunch and freshness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 🌿: Infuses the sauce with aromatic richness.
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes 🍅: Smooth and tangy foundation for the sauce.
• 1 small can (6 oz) tomato paste 🍅: Thickens and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿: Adds an earthy depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 🌿: Balances the sauce with a slightly sweet, minty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sugar 🍬: Cuts acidity and enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂: Brings out the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 🖤: Adds warmth and complexity.
• 1/4 cup water 💧: Helps bind and loosen the sauce.

For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz spaghetti 🍝: The classic pasta choice, though any variety works.
• Salt (for boiling water) 🧂: Essential for flavoring the pasta.

For Garnish:

• Grated Parmesan cheese 🧀: A savory, cheesy topping.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional) 🌿: Brightens the dish with color and freshness.

Pro tip : A sharp, reliable chef’s knife makes chopping onions and bell peppers a breeze. We love using this top-rated chef’s knife for precise and effortless prep.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (5-7 minutes).
• Drain excess grease and keep the beef in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Add diced onion, green bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet.
• Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and softened.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water.
• Season with oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix well, reduce heat to low, and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water.
• Add spaghetti and cook until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes, but check a minute earlier).
• Drain well and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

• Once the sauce is ready, toss it with the cooked spaghetti until fully coated.
• Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success

• For a Thicker Sauce: Simmer uncovered to let the liquid reduce.
• Vegetable Additions: Mushrooms, zucchini, or shredded carrots can add extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Double the quantity of fresh oregano or basil for a more vibrant flavor.
• Al Dente Pasta: Avoid overcooking the spaghetti; al dente is key for the perfect texture.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the sauce (separately from the pasta) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm the sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. Toss with freshly cooked pasta for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great substitutes. You can also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.

Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and check the labels on your crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! The sauce tastes even better the next day. Prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge.

Q: What can I serve with this spaghetti?
A: A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this dish.

Q: Can I add wine to the sauce?
A: Definitely! A splash of red wine adds depth and richness to the sauce. Add it after browning the meat and let it simmer for a minute before adding the tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty spaghetti is perfect for casual weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Pair it with:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for sopping up the sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple Caesar or mixed greens salad balances the richness of the pasta.
• Red Wine: A medium-bodied Chianti or Merlot complements the tomato-based sauce beautifully.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: ~20g
• Carbs: ~50g
• Fat: ~12g

A Dish That Brings People Together

There’s a reason why this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe is a family favorite—it’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dinner or sharing it with loved ones, this timeless classic never fails to satisfy.

So grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and get ready to savor the magic of spaghetti done right. Don’t forget to sprinkle on that Parmesan and enjoy every bite! 🍝✨

There’s something magical about a steaming plate of spaghetti coated in rich, hearty meat sauce. It’s classic, comforting, and never goes out of style. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving the nostalgic flavors of a traditional Italian-American dish, this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe is here to delight.

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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Meat Sauce:
• 1 lb ground beef 🥩: Adds a hearty flavorful base.
• 1 small onion diced 🧅: Sweetens the sauce as it cooks.
• 1/2 cup green bell peppers diced 🫑: Offers a subtle crunch and freshness.
• 3 cloves garlic minced 🌿: Infuses the sauce with aromatic richness.
• 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes 🍅: Smooth and tangy foundation for the sauce.
• 1 small can 6 oz tomato paste 🍅: Thickens and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿: Adds an earthy depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 🌿: Balances the sauce with a slightly sweet minty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sugar 🍬: Cuts acidity and enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂: Brings out the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 🖤: Adds warmth and complexity.
• 1/4 cup water 💧: Helps bind and loosen the sauce.
• For the Spaghetti:
• 12 oz spaghetti 🍝: The classic pasta choice though any variety works.
• Salt for boiling water 🧂: Essential for flavoring the pasta.
• For Garnish:
• Grated Parmesan cheese 🧀: A savory cheesy topping.
• Chopped fresh parsley optional 🌿: Brightens the dish with color and freshness.

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Method

 

1. Step 1: Prepare the Meat
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (5-7 minutes).
4. Drain excess grease and keep the beef in the skillet.
5. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
6. Add diced onion, green bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet.
7. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and softened.
8. Step 3: Build the Sauce
9. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water.
10. Season with oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
11. Mix well, reduce heat to low, and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
12. Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
13. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water.
14. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes, but check a minute earlier).
15. Drain well and set aside.
16. Step 5: Combine and Serve
17. Once the sauce is ready, toss it with the cooked spaghetti until fully coated.
18. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.

Notes

Tips for Success
For a Thicker Sauce: Simmer uncovered to let the liquid reduce.
Vegetable Additions: Mushrooms, zucchini, or shredded carrots can add extra nutrition and flavor.
Make It Spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!