Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce: A Comforting Family Classic

Name: Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio); 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy); 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended); 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp dried oregano; 2 tsp dried basil; ½ cup red wine; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

May 8, 2025

Updated:

May 8, 2025

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of simmering Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce wafting through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds and beckoning everyone to the table. Imagine a rich, tomato-based sauce bubbling away, infused with robust herbs, tender ground meat, and a sprinkle of love. It’s that comforting dish that warms your heart while satisfying even the pickiest eaters. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

This sauce isn’t just food; it’s a hearty hug on a plate. Picture family gatherings where laughter mingles with the clinking of forks against plates, as everyone digs into a steaming bowl of spaghetti topped with this divine sauce. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just trying to impress the in-laws, this dish is sure to be the star of the show.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce is simple to prepare, making weeknight dinners easy and stress-free
Its robust flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds
The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients create an appetizing visual appeal that enhances any meal
Plus, it’s versatile enough for various pasta types or even as a pizza topping!

I still remember the first time I served this to my family; everyone’s eyes lit up with joy as they took their first bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy flavor without too much grease.
Italian Sausage: Adding sausage gives the sauce an extra punch of flavor; choose sweet or spicy based on preference.
Onion: A large yellow onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for best results.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic boosts flavor; use about four cloves for a fragrant aroma.
Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a smooth texture; San Marzano varieties are known for their rich taste.
Tomato Paste: A tablespoon helps thicken the sauce while adding concentrated tomato flavor; don’t skimp on this!
Dried Herbs: Oregano and basil are classic choices; use dried herbs to infuse deeper flavors during cooking.
Red Wine: A splash of red wine elevates flavors and adds richness; choose something you’d enjoy drinking.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing vegetables, giving a lovely fruity note to the sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce

How to Make Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce

Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling, about five minutes.

Add Garlic and Meat: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about one minute more. Then add ground beef and Italian sausage; brown until fully cooked while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes along with tomato paste. Sprinkle in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine those beautiful flavors.

Pour in Wine and Simmer: Add half a cup of red wine to deglaze the pot—scrape up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom! Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.

Adjust Consistency and Taste: If your sauce seems too thick after simmering, add a splash of water or broth until desired consistency is reached. Taste-test and adjust salt or herbs if necessary before serving!

With these steps complete, you’ll have perfected your Best Spaghetti Meat Sauce. Serve it hot over al dente spaghetti noodles or let your creativity shine by pairing it with other dishes!

You Must Know

The best spaghetti meat sauce is all about layering flavors
Start with a good base of aromatic vegetables, let it simmer for hours, and don’t be afraid to taste as you go!
A splash of red wine can elevate the flavor dramatically

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic and onions until fragrant, then add ground meat. Once browned, pour in crushed tomatoes and spices. Let it simmer gently to marry flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add diced vegetables like bell peppers. Experiment with spices like oregano or a hint of chili for a kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer flavor; they make a world of difference
Don’t rush the simmering process—allow at least 30 minutes for flavors to develop fully
Fresh herbs added right before serving brighten up the dish beautifully

Sometimes I whip this sauce up during family gatherings, and the kids fight over who gets to lick the spoon! Their giggles fill the kitchen as they savor every drop.

FAQ

What makes the best spaghetti meat sauce?

The best spaghetti meat sauce combines quality meat, fresh herbs, and time to develop flavors.

Can I use other meats in my sauce?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or sausage can add unique flavors and textures to your sauce.

How do I make my sauce thicker?

To thicken your spaghetti meat sauce, let it simmer longer or add a bit of tomato paste.

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