There’s nothing like a comforting plate of homemade spaghetti to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. This recipe features tender ground beef, a rich and flavorful sauce, and just the right blend of seasonings. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy date night.
Why This Recipe Works
Simple Ingredients: Everyday pantry staples come together for an impressive dish.
Perfectly Seasoned Beef: The blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onions infuses the meat with incredible flavor.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this spaghetti is ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps cook the meat evenly.
1 pound lean ground beef: Choose 90/10 for a balance of flavor and less grease.
½ yellow onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and depth.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for authentic flavor.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Brings a subtle garlicky kick.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
½ teaspoon pepper: For a mild spice and warmth.
Optional Additions:
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce: For a saucier finish.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: To sprinkle on top.
Fresh basil: For garnish.
How to Make Homemade Spaghetti
Cook the Meat
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 5-7 minutes).
Season the Beef
Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
If desired, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Add Sauce (Optional)
For a saucy spaghetti, stir in crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the Spaghetti
While the meat sauce is simmering, cook spaghetti according to package instructions in salted boiling water. Drain well.
Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce until well coated.
Plate the spaghetti and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Tips for Recipe Success
Use Fresh Garlic: Substitute garlic powder with 3-4 minced garlic cloves for an extra burst of flavor.
Customize Your Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a splash of red wine for richness.
Choose the Right Pasta: Spaghetti works best, but you can use fettuccine, linguine, or penne if you prefer.
Make It Ahead: The meat sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your homemade spaghetti with:
Garlic Bread: For a classic side.
Caesar Salad: For a crisp, refreshing contrast.
Steamed Vegetables: Such as broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting and Satisfying: A true classic that’s always a hit.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or add veggies for your personal touch.
Final Thoughts
Homemade spaghetti is a timeless dish that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. With its hearty meat sauce and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and you’ll never go back to store-bought sauces again!