Homemade Spaghetti And Meat Sauce
A hearty and comforting spaghetti and meat sauce dish featuring a savory tomato-based sauce with tender ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and Italian seasonings. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this classic recipe delivers rich flavors with simple ingredients, served over al dente pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook the canned tomatoes and tomato paste over medium heat.
- Saute chopped celery and large diced onion in a separate skillet until tender.
- Add the sautéed celery and onions to the tomato mixture in the saucepan.
- Brown the ground beef in the skillet, drain excess fat, then add it to the tomato sauce.
- Add Italian seasonings, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce slowly, stirring often, for about 30 minutes.
- Prepare the spaghetti noodles separately according to package instructions.
- Serve the sauce over the cooked spaghetti and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using San Marzano canned tomatoes. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if you prefer a lighter dish. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the sauce; add them towards the end of cooking. If you're short on time, use jarred marinara sauce as a base and add sautéed veggies for flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti and meat sauce with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice touch. This dish also pairs well with a glass of red wine, enhancing the flavors of the sauce. For a twist, try serving it alongside Meat Filled Jumbo Shells for a hearty Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Spaghetti And Meat Sauce contains roughly 381 calories, with 15g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (122% of the Daily Value), potassium (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2094mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance. Allow it to cool and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove before serving. This can actually enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
What can I add to make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. You can also stir in some hot sauce or a splash of sriracha at the end of cooking for an extra kick.
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great substitute for a healthier option. It will add a nutty flavor and additional fiber to your meal. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to cook.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).