Classic Old-School Spaghetti with Ground Beef

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Add ground beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, black pepper, salt, bay leaf, and water or broth.
3. Stir well and reduce heat to low.
4. Cover partially and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. If the sauce gets too thick, add some reserved pasta water for the perfect consistency.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

1. Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss well to coat.
2. Let it sit for 3–5 minutes off heat to soak in the flavor.
3. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Pro Tips:

• For deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer up to 1 hour.
• Want more depth? Add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce.
• This sauce freezes well—perfect for meal prep.