Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta night into a culinary adventure that will have your family begging for seconds! This classic Spaghetti Sauce with Hamburger isn't just another recipe—it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the rich, hearty goodness of ground beef with a perfectly balanced tomato sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend chef looking to impress, this recipe is your ticket to creating restaurant-quality pasta that's both comforting and absolutely delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spaghetti pasta, cooked
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. This includes 1 lb of ground beef, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil, salt and pepper to taste, and cooked spaghetti pasta.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
- Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This will help keep your sauce from becoming greasy.
- Return the skillet to medium heat and add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to mix all the flavors together.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- While the sauce is simmering, prepare the spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- After the sauce has simmered for 20 minutes, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- To serve, place a portion of the cooked spaghetti on a plate and ladle the hamburger sauce generously over the top. Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
- Enjoy your homemade spaghetti sauce with hamburger, perfect for a comforting meal!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing the onions and garlic to build a deep flavor foundation.
- Drain Excess Fat: Always drain the fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy sauce.
- Let It Simmer: The longer the sauce simmers (within reason), the more the flavors will develop and intensify.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Fresh Herbs Bonus: If you have fresh basil or oregano, add a sprinkle at the end for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 257kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg
