Classic Spaghetti Meat Sauce (Hearty, Savory & Family-Friendly)

Nothing beats a classic spaghetti meat sauce for a comforting, home-cooked meal. Rich, savory, and full of flavor, this sauce combines ground beef, aromatic vegetables, herbs, and tomatoes to create a hearty topping for your favorite pasta.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this sauce is versatile — use it over spaghetti, in lasagna, or even as a base for stuffed peppers. Simple ingredients, slow-simmered for depth of flavor, make this classic spaghetti meat sauce a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Classic Spaghetti Meat Sauce

• Rich, hearty, and comforting — tastes like it’s been simmering for hours
• Simple ingredients you likely already have
• Versatile — great on spaghetti, lasagna, or pasta bakes
• Family-friendly — both kids and adults love it
• Make-ahead friendly — freezes beautifully for busy weeknights

This is the ultimate go-to spaghetti sauce for anyone craving homemade flavor.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
• 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.

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Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

1. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste (if using).
2. Add sugar, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
3. Mix well to combine.

Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning after simmering for best results.

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Step 4: Simmer

• Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for 25–35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• For deeper flavor, simmer longer (up to 1 hour), adding a splash of water if sauce becomes too thick.

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Step 5: Serve

• Toss with cooked spaghetti or your preferred pasta.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

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Texture & Flavor Profile

• Meat: Tender, savory, perfectly seasoned
• Tomato base: Rich, thick, and slightly sweet
• Herbs: Classic Italian flavor with aromatic depth
• Overall: Balanced, hearty, and comforting

This sauce is thick enough to coat pasta but not overly dense, creating a satisfying meal in every bite.

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Variations

1. Vegetable Meat Sauce – Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
2. Spicy Meat Sauce – Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
3. Red Wine Meat Sauce – Add ½ cup red wine during simmering for depth of flavor.
4. Slow Cooker Version – Brown meat and sauté aromatics, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Freezer

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Meat Sauce

1. Brown meat thoroughly for maximum flavor.
2. Simmer low and slow to develop deep, rich taste.
3. Adjust seasoning at the end — tomatoes mellow and flavors blend over time.
4. Use quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• Classic spaghetti topped with Parmesan cheese
• Baked pasta dishes, like lasagna or baked ziti
• Stuffed bell peppers
• Serve alongside garlic bread and a fresh green salad

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Why This Recipe Works

This classic spaghetti meat sauce balances:

• Savory, seasoned meat
• Rich tomato flavor
• Aromatic herbs

…for a comforting, crowd-pleasing sauce. Simplicity and proper simmering allow the flavors to meld naturally, creating a homey Italian-style sauce perfect for any pasta night.

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Occasions for Classic Spaghetti Meat Sauce

• Family dinners
• Casual weeknight meals
• Potlucks or gatherings
• Make-ahead meal prep
• Pasta bake dinners

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Final Thoughts

Classic Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a timeless, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and always a hit. With tender meat, rich tomato flavor, and aromatic herbs, it’s the perfect go-to sauce for pasta lovers of all ages. Serve it with spaghetti, sprinkle with Parmesan, and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal that warms both the stomach and the heart.

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