This Old-School Spaghetti is a timeless, comforting dish loaded with rich Italian flavors. Made with ground beef (or turkey) and simmered with crushed tomatoes, basil, and oregano, this hearty sauce pairs perfectly with classic spaghetti noodles. It’s an easy recipe ideal for family dinners, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Top with fresh Parmesan for added indulgence!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Fresh basil or grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Meat:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with onion and garlic over medium heat until browned.
- Drain any excess fat if needed for a leaner sauce.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Stir everything together to create a rich, thick sauce.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors and thicken the texture.
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Drain well and set aside.
- Combine and Serve:
- Toss the spaghetti with the sauce, or ladle the sauce generously over the pasta for that old-school spaghetti feel.
- Garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan for extra flavor!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread for a classic Italian meal.
- Serve with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine or iced tea for a complete dining experience.
Additional Tips
- Adjust the spices: More basil and oregano add a richer Italian flavor!
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a velvety texture.
- Try different proteins: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
This Old-School Spaghetti is a nostalgic, flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to every bite. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in!