Made Spaghetti Meat Sauce Recipe

Introduction

There’s something about a hearty plate of spaghetti meat sauce that brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. I recently whipped up a batch of spaghetti meat sauce, and I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly and easily it came together. Not only was it a hit with my family, but it also turned out absolutely delicious! This recipe is perfect for beginners who want to create a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me take you through this delightful recipe step by step.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful spaghetti meat sauce, you will need:

• 2 lbs of ground chuck
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 can of crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
• 2 cans of tomato sauce (15 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 5 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
• 1 large onion or 2 medium onions, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons of minced parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

In an extra-large heated skillet, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions and diced green pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat until the vegetables are softened. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook until it’s fragrant and slightly browned.

2. Brown the Ground Chuck

Add the ground chuck to the skillet and cook until it is browned. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease from the meat.

3. Add the Seasonings

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, minced parsley, sweet basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix the seasonings evenly throughout the browned ground chuck.

4. Incorporate the Tomatoes

Next, add the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients. Finally, pour in the tomato sauce and mix well.

5. Simmer the Sauce

Turn the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 1 hour. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the boiling water to prevent the spaghetti from sticking together. Boil the spaghetti pasta for 7 to 8 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander.

7. Combine and Serve

Add the delicious meat sauce to the drained spaghetti and toss to combine. Serve hot and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade spaghetti meat sauce!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

To serve this delicious spaghetti meat sauce, consider the following:

• Plate the spaghetti in individual bowls.
• Top generously with the meat sauce.
• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavors significantly.
2. Let it Simmer Longer: If you have the time, allowing the sauce to simmer for longer can deepen the flavors even more.
3. Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
4. Add Veggies: Consider adding mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrients.
5. Save Leftovers: This sauce freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground chuck with lentils or a meat substitute.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil and oregano instead of dried for a fresher taste.
• Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or bruschetta for a delightful combination.
• Pair with a simple green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a more sophisticated touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the meat sauce in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

• Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes; just make sure to peel and chop them first.

1. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

• Absolutely! The flavors improve as it sits, so it’s great for meal prep.

1. What type of pasta can I use?

• While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta type like penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta.

1. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

• Yes, the meat sauce freezes very well!

1. Can I add other meats?

• You can mix in Italian sausage or turkey for a different flavor profile.

1. What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

• You can add a splash of water or additional tomato sauce to reach your desired consistency.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

1. Can I make this sauce spicy?

• Yes, add crushed red pepper or hot sauce to the sauce for heat.

1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

• Yes, dried herbs work well, but use them sparingly since they are more concentrated.

1. What cheese goes well with this dish?
   • Parmesan or mozzarella cheese are excellent choices for topping your spaghetti.

Conclusion

This spaghetti meat sauce recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with flavor that your family will love. It’s a perfect dish for beginners looking to impress at the dinner table. With its comforting aroma and rich taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious homemade spaghetti dinner tonight!

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