There’s something magical about revisiting the flavors of childhood, and today’s recipe is a heartwarming favorite: spaghetti with a rich, savory minced meat sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug from your mom—a dish everyone loves and perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 500 g (about 1 lb) of ground beef
- 400 g (14 oz) of spaghetti
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 ripe tomatoes, grated or pureed
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of oregano or thyme
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How to Make It
Prep Your Base
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook them until soft and translucent. Toss in the garlic and sauté until fragrant—it’ll start to fill your kitchen with that irresistible aroma.Add the Meat
Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook until there’s no pink left, then season generously with salt, pepper, and oregano.Create the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook for a minute to develop its flavor. Add the grated tomatoes, a sprinkle of sugar if needed, and a splash of water. Simmer the sauce gently for 15–20 minutes until it thickens, stirring occasionally.Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is bubbling away, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, aiming for a perfect al dente texture. Drain and set aside.Combine and Serve
Toss the pasta with the sauce or serve it ladled generously on top—your choice! Add a sprinkle of Parmesan if you like, and enjoy while it’s piping hot.
