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! 🍝✨
Creative Variations to Try
While the Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe is a classic, there’s no harm in giving it your own unique spin! Here are some creative ways to elevate the dish or adapt it for different occasions:
1. Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
- After tossing the spaghetti with the sauce, transfer it to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
2. Spaghetti with Meatballs
- Swap the ground beef in the sauce for homemade or store-bought meatballs.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce to infuse them with flavor.
3. Spaghetti Primavera
- Add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and spinach to the sauce for a veggie-packed twist.
4. Spaghetti Carbonara Style
- Skip the tomato-based sauce and toss the cooked spaghetti with crispy bacon or pancetta, whisked eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper for a creamy, luxurious dish.
5. Seafood Spaghetti
- Replace the ground beef with shrimp, scallops, or clams.
- Use olive oil, garlic, and a splash of white wine to create a light seafood sauce instead of the tomato base.
Kitchen Tips for Efficiency
Cooking spaghetti doesn’t have to feel like a marathon. These simple kitchen tips will make your time in the kitchen smoother:
- Pre-Chop Ingredients: Dice the onion and bell peppers in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Freeze Tomato Paste: If you have leftover tomato paste, portion it out into ice cube trays, freeze, and store the cubes in a freezer bag for future recipes.
- Simmer Without Worry: If you’re short on time, you can use a slow cooker for the sauce. Let it cook on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off approach.
- Cook Pasta Like a Pro: Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. You can use it to adjust the sauce consistency or to help the sauce cling to the spaghetti.
Meal Prep & Leftover Ideas
Got extra spaghetti or sauce? Don’t let it go to waste! Here’s how you can repurpose your leftovers:
1. Spaghetti Pie
- Mix leftover spaghetti and sauce with a beaten egg and shredded cheese.
- Press the mixture into a pie dish, sprinkle more cheese on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
2. Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Hollow out large bell peppers and fill them with the spaghetti and sauce.
- Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
3. Lunch Wraps
- Use the spaghetti as a filling for wraps! Add a sprinkle of cheese and heat it up for a quick, on-the-go meal.
Pairing Wines with Spaghetti
For the ultimate dining experience, pair your spaghetti with the right wine. Here are some suggestions based on the dish’s flavor profile:
- Rich Tomato Sauce: Pair with a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese.
- Spicy Twist: A bold Zinfandel or Syrah complements the heat.
- Cheesy Baked Spaghetti: Try a creamy Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for balance.
- Seafood Spaghetti: Opt for a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
These additional sections aim to inspire creativity, efficiency, and an elevated dining experience with your Old-Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or impressing guests, the possibilities are endless!
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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.
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.
Notes
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.
