Introduction:
My husband couldn’t stop raving about this spaghetti meat sauce recipe I made for our family dinner last night. He was so surprised by how flavorful and delicious it was, he even asked for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes
– 1 can of tomato sauce
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
4. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 320
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Protein: 25g
Popular Questions:
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
– Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
2. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
– Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried herbs, just adjust quantities to taste.
3. Can I add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms?
– Absolutely, feel free to add in additional vegetables for more flavor and nutrients.
4. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
– Yes, this sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I freeze the sauce?
– Yes, this sauce freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
6. Can I make this sauce in a slow cooker?
– Yes, you can cook this sauce in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours.
7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
– Fresh tomatoes can be used, just make sure to adjust the liquid content accordingly.
8. Can I add red pepper flakes for heat?
– Yes, add red pepper flakes to taste if you prefer a spicy sauce.
9. Can I use this sauce for other dishes like lasagna?
– This sauce can be used for various pasta dishes, pizzas, or casseroles.
10. Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
– Absolutely, feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.
Helpful Tips:
1. For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine while simmering.
2. Stir in a dollop of butter at the end for a luxurious finish.
3. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added depth of flavor.
4. Add a pinch of sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
5. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for a twist.
6. For a meatier sauce, add in cooked Italian sausage along with the ground beef.
7. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
8. Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
10. Double the recipe and freeze leftovers for a quick weeknight meal.
Expert Secrets:
1. Brown the meat well for a deep flavor base.
2. Don’t rush the cooking process, the longer it simmers, the better it gets.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout the cooking process.
4. Use quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
5. Let the sauce cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Make extra and use the sauce for homemade pizza or stuffed peppers.
7. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick.
8. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, earthy flavor.
9. Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork for a richer sauce.
10. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to make the sauce your own.
Enjoy making this delicious spaghetti meat sauce recipe for your next family dinner!