Best Spaghetti Recipe with Ground Beef – Quick Family Dinner Idea for Busy Nights

Table of Contents: Spaghetti Recipe with Ground Beef

Spaghetti Recipe with Ground Beef

There’s nothing quite like a steaming plate of Classic Spaghetti with Ground Beef to bring everyone to the table. This timeless recipe, rich with a savory meat sauce, is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or even holiday gatherings. Whether you call it Spaghetti Bolognese or simply quick pasta with meat, this dish delivers comfort in every bite.

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Introduction: Spaghetti Recipe with Ground Beef

Few dishes are as universally loved as a well-made Spaghetti with Ground Beef. This recipe is a staple in many households because it’s easy to prepare, deeply flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. The combination of tender ground beef, aromatic onions, bell peppers, garlic, and a rich tomato sauce creates a classic spaghetti sauce that clings perfectly to al dente pasta.

This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week. It’s a quick pasta with meat option that feels homemade without requiring hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—you can tweak the herbs, add mushrooms, or even swap beef for turkey if you prefer.

Whether you grew up eating this Spaghetti Bolognese-style dish or are making it for the first time, this recipe guarantees a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal.

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Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names, including:
– Spaghetti Bolognese (a meatier, slow-simmered version)
– Classic Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
– Quick Pasta with Meat (for a faster weeknight version)

Variations:
– Vegetable-Packed: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
– Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage.
– Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.

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Ingredients: Spaghetti Recipe with Ground Beef

• – 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• – 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• – ½ teaspoon black pepper
• – 1 ½ cups onion, chopped
• – 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
• – 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• – 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• – 1 (16-ounce) can tomato sauce
• – 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• – 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• – ½ teaspoon granulated sugar (balances acidity)
• – 16 ounces spaghetti
• – Garnish:
• – 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• – Grated Parmesan cheese

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

– Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
– Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
– Season with salt and black pepper, cooking until no pink remains (about 6–8 minutes).
– Chef’s Tip: Drain excess fat if needed, but leave a little for flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

– Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).

3. Build the Sauce

– Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and sugar.
– Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
– Chef’s Tip: The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor.

4. Cook the Spaghetti

– Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
– Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

5. Combine & Serve

– Toss spaghetti with the meat sauce.
– Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.

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Recipe Card Block

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6 | Calories: ~550 per serving

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Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

✅ Perfect Meat-to-Sauce Ratio – The 80/20 ground beef ensures richness without greasiness.
✅ Balanced Flavors – A touch of sugar cuts the tomatoes’ acidity, while Italian seasoning adds depth.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – This quick pasta with meat reheats beautifully for leftovers.

Pro Tips:
– For a thicker sauce, add extra tomato paste.
– Swap beef for turkey or Italian sausage for a twist.
– Freeze leftovers for an easy future meal.

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Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

– Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
– Freeze: Portion sauce (without pasta) in freezer bags for up to 3 months.
– Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

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People Also Ask: Spaghetti Recipe with Ground Beef

How Do You Make Spaghetti with Meat Sauce?

Making spaghetti with meat sauce is simple: brown ground beef, sauté aromatics, simmer with tomatoes and herbs, then toss with cooked pasta. The key is slow simmering for maximum flavor.

What Is the Best Way to Cook Ground Beef for Spaghetti?

Use 80/20 ground beef for juiciness, and brown it in a hot pan without overcrowding. Drain excess fat if needed, but leave some for richness.

How Long Should Spaghetti Sauce Simmer?

For the best classic spaghetti sauce, simmer for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

What Herbs Go in Spaghetti with Ground Beef?

Italian seasoning (a mix of basil, oregano, rosemary) is ideal. Fresh parsley and garlic also enhance the dish.

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Conclusion: Spaghetti Recipe with Ground Beef

This Classic Spaghetti with Ground Beef is a foolproof, family-approved meal that never disappoints. Whether you’re craving Spaghetti Bolognese or a quick pasta with meat, this recipe delivers every time. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to share your results with us!

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