The Best Spaghetti Recipe
If you’re searching for a family classic that never fails to draw everyone to the table with anticipation, The Best Spaghetti is your answer. This is a meal that promises cozy flavors, a dreamy sauce with just the right balance, and that irresistible tangle of pasta and cheese that makes hearts (and bellies!) happy. Fork-twirling, sauce-slurping joy awaits in every bite, all thanks to thoughtfully chosen ingredients and a sauce that simmers to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight comfort or feeding a crowd, The Best Spaghetti brings easy Italian-American magic to your kitchen, every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to making The Best Spaghetti, each ingredient plays a starring role in shaping its crave-worthy flavor. From the savory richness of beef to those bright aromatic herbs, these components come together for a dinner that tastes like pure home-cooked bliss.
- Spaghetti (12 oz): Classic, long pasta that soaks up the sauce beautifully and holds up well to a hearty meat mixture.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds depth and helps sauté the onion and garlic, unlocking their full flavors.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Gives the sauce a subtle sweetness and aromatic base that weaves through every forkful.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings just the right soulful kick and unmistakable Italian flair.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The heart of the sauce, offering hearty texture and meaty flavor that makes this dish so satisfying.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for brightening the natural flavors of the dish.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and balance.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Delivers that classic Italian aroma in every bite.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Offers herby notes that make the sauce truly special.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a touch of gentle heat—add more if you like it bold.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz): The base that brings body, color, and deep tomato flavor to the sauce.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Intensifies that rich tomato taste.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Balances acidity and rounds out the sauce for a mellow finish.
- Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Sprinkles freshness and a pop of green just before serving.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): The savory-salty crown every bowl of The Best Spaghetti deserves!
How to Make The Best Spaghetti
Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a lively boil—a key step for perfectly seasoned pasta. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente, which means tender yet pleasingly firm. After draining, set the noodles aside. Giving them a quick toss with a drizzle of olive oil can help prevent sticking and keeps them ready for saucing.
Step 2: Start the Flavor Base
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s softened and sweet, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just a minute more—enough to make your kitchen smell irresistible without letting the garlic brown.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Next, crumble in the ground beef and season it with salt and pepper. Let it sizzle until fully browned, breaking up any large bits as it cooks. This step builds up those savory, caramelized flavors that make The Best Spaghetti so hearty. If there’s excess fat, now’s the moment to carefully drain it away.
Step 4: Season and Simmer the Sauce
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, and (if you want that gentle heat) red pepper flakes. Now add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar. Give everything a good stir and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let the sauce bubble gently, uncovered, for about 15 to 20 minutes so the flavors can mingle and deepen.
Step 5: Finish with Parsley
Once your sauce has reached that beautiful thick texture, stir in the chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—you’re after a vibrant, incredibly inviting tomato and meat sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of spaghetti.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Pile the al dente spaghetti onto plates or into wide bowls. Ladle over that gorgeous, meaty sauce and go generous with the grated Parmesan cheese. There it is: The Best Spaghetti in all its glory, ready to be devoured!
How to Serve The Best Spaghetti
Garnishes
For unforgettable presentation and an extra pop of flavor, top your spaghetti with an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley and a shower of freshly grated Parmesan. If you love a bit of zing, a crack of black pepper or a light drizzle of good olive oil is all you need. Make it your own with red pepper flakes, a twist of lemon zest, or a dusting of Italian breadcrumbs for crunch.
Side Dishes
Classic sides are always a hit with The Best Spaghetti. Think warm, crusty garlic bread just begging to be dipped in extra sauce, or a crisp Caesar salad with romaine and sharp Parmesan. Roasted vegetables or even a simple arugula salad with a squeeze of lemon round out the meal and keep things feeling fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to elevate dinnertime? Serve The Best Spaghetti in a large, rustic platter family-style or twirl it into individual nests for a bistro-worthy look. For parties, you can create spaghetti cups in muffin tins or even layer leftovers with cheese for a quick pasta bake. This recipe loves to play dress-up!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let everything cool to room temperature before storing. Keep the spaghetti and sauce separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the perfect texture and flavor for your next meal.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the sauce on its own in freezer-safe zip-top bags or containers for up to 3 months. The pasta can also be frozen, but for the very best spaghetti consistency, it’s better to cook fresh noodles before serving again. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Gently reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen it if necessary. You can reheat spaghetti by plunging it for just a few seconds into boiling water, or with a quick zap in the microwave—just add a damp paper towel to prevent drying.
FAQs
Can I substitute another protein instead of beef?
Absolutely! Italian sausage adds a great kick, or try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Want to keep it vegetarian? Swap in lentils or your favorite plant-based crumble; the rich sauce will still sing.
Is it better to use fresh or dried herbs?
Dried oregano and basil infuse the sauce during cooking, while fresh parsley (added at the end) brightens it up. If you have fresh oregano or basil on hand, sprinkle them in at the end for an extra layer of flavor.
How do I make The Best Spaghetti gluten-free?
It’s as easy as swapping the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free and just as delicious with alternative noodles.
What’s the secret to the richest sauce?
Time! Letting the sauce simmer even longer (up to an hour) will develop deeper flavors. Some cooks like to add a splash of red wine after browning the beef for extra complexity—it’s a simple touch that makes The Best Spaghetti even more luxurious.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Definitely. The Best Spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger pot or Dutch oven for the sauce. Prepare the spaghetti in batches if needed, then gather the gang for a meal they’ll remember.
Final Thoughts
There’s something timeless and truly magnetic about a bubbling pot of The Best Spaghetti, and I can’t wait for you to experience the full comfort and joy it brings. Whether you’re a devoted pasta lover or looking for a new weeknight favorite, this recipe is always a hit. So go ahead, gather your people, twirl those noodles, and let The Best Spaghetti become a beloved tradition in your home too!
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The Best Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A classic and easy-to-make spaghetti recipe with a flavorful meat sauce that is perfect for a comforting dinner. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 pound ground beef
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, sauté onion until soft, add garlic, and cook.
- Cook Ground Beef: Brown ground beef, season, and add seasonings.
- Prepare Sauce: Add tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and simmer.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in parsley, serve sauce over spaghetti, and top with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, simmer the sauce longer—up to an hour.
- Add a splash of red wine for depth, or swap ground beef with Italian sausage for extra spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
