There’s something timeless and deeply comforting about a big bowl of homemade spaghetti. The tender pasta strands coated in a rich, savory beef and tomato sauce create the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table fast. Simple ingredients, classic flavors, and an easy cooking process make this dish perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. This homemade spaghetti recipe delivers bold taste, hearty texture, and satisfying warmth in every bite.
Made with ground beef, sweet onions, olive oil, and a slow-simmered tomato base, this pasta recipe is both rustic and flavorful. The sauce clings beautifully to the spaghetti, creating a balanced combination of juicy meat, soft vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (800 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 400 g spaghetti pasta
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Preparation Steps
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once warm, add the diced onion and cook gently until soft and translucent. This step releases natural sweetness and builds the base flavor of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent browning too quickly.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Garlic burns easily, so keep the heat moderate.
Next, add the ground beef. Break it apart using a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains. Allow the beef to caramelize slightly for deeper flavor. If there is excess fat, carefully drain it.
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for one minute to intensify the taste. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add salt, pepper, oregano, basil, paprika, and sugar. Mix everything well.
Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking process thickens the sauce and allows all the flavors to blend beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should become rich, thick, and aromatic.
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. The pasta should be tender but still slightly firm when bitten.
Before draining, reserve about half a cup of pasta water. This starchy water helps bind the sauce later if needed.
Drain the spaghetti and add it directly into the meat sauce. Toss everything together gently so each strand is coated evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot in deep bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley or basil. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, creamy finish. Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
This spaghetti also tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. It stores well in the refrigerator and reheats easily, making it great for meal prep.
Cooking Tips
For extra richness, add a splash of cream or a knob of butter at the end. If you enjoy spice, a pinch of chili flakes works perfectly. You can also add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for more texture and nutrition.
Choosing high-quality tomatoes makes a big difference in flavor. Crushed San Marzano tomatoes are especially recommended for a sweeter, less acidic sauce.
Always salt your pasta water generously. Properly seasoned pasta enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade spaghetti recipe is quick, affordable, and made with pantry staples. It delivers authentic Italian-style comfort food without complicated steps. The combination of juicy beef, soft onions, and slow-simmered tomatoes creates a sauce that tastes homemade and satisfying.
It’s ideal for families, gatherings, or cozy dinners at home. Plus, the recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you like it extra saucy, spicy, or cheesy, it adapts effortlessly.
A warm bowl of spaghetti with meat sauce never goes out of style. Simple, classic, and full of flavor, this dish proves that the best meals often come from the most basic ingredients. Once you try it, it will surely become one of your favorite homemade pasta recipes.