Easy Homemade Spaghetti
Say hello to Easy Homemade Spaghetti, the dish that transforms basic pantry staples into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner. With perfectly browned ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a simple recipe that delivers big on taste—ideal for a cozy family meal or a quick weeknight fix!
My love affair with Easy Homemade Spaghetti began on a cold evening when I needed something hearty and warming. As the mouthwatering scent of garlic and herbs drifted through our home, my husband and child were drawn to the stove, their faces brimming with anticipation. With the first bite, a wave of contentment washed over them, and I knew this recipe would become a beloved family staple. There’s nothing quite like seeing loved ones savor a meal you’ve prepared with care and simplicity in mind!
Why This Homemade Spaghetti
- Straightforward Ingredients: No fancy items required—just basic components and a dash of love.
- Adaptable: Keep it classic or add extra veggies, spices, or even different meats to suit your preference.
- Comfort on a Plate: Perfectly cooked pasta with a hearty, flavorful sauce… it’s a warm hug in every forkful.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters appreciate the familiar taste of this comforting spaghetti.
Ingredients (Serves 8; weights in grams and pounds for convenience.)
- Ground Beef (450g / ~1 lb)
- A bit of fat adds flavor, but you can go lean if preferred.
- Salt (½ tsp)
- Essential for enhancing the natural richness of the beef.
- Black Pepper (¼ tsp)
- Adds mild heat and depth to the sauce.
- Beef Broth (1 can, ~420ml / ~14.75 oz)
- Full-salt version recommended for a bold, savory backbone.
- Tomato Sauce (1 can, ~225g / ~8 oz, with garlic/oregano/basil)
- Infuses an herby note without extra steps.
- Tomato Paste (1 can, ~170g / ~6 oz, Italian herb variety)
- Concentrated flavor that thickens and intensifies the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Delivers that beloved garlicky essence to the sauce.
- Granulated Sugar (2 tsp)
- Subtly balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp)
- A convenient blend of dried oregano, basil, and other herbs.
- Thin Spaghetti Noodles (1 box, ~454g / ~16 oz)
- Coats evenly with sauce, ensuring flavorful bites.
How to Homemade Spaghetti
- Brown the Beef
- Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Crumble in the ground beef; add salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Drain any excess grease.
- Build the Sauce
- To the browned beef, add beef broth, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Stir in minced garlic, sugar, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Boil the Pasta
- About 10–15 minutes before the sauce finishes, cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain (no rinse needed).
- Combine & Serve
- Gently fold the cooked noodles into the simmered sauce until well coated.
- Plate and serve hot. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you like extra cheesy goodness.
Notes
- Brown Your Beef Thoroughly: Let it develop a deep golden crust for enhanced flavor in the final sauce.
- Gluten-Free Variation: Swap regular pasta for a gluten-free alternative. Also check that your sauce ingredients (especially broth and canned items) are certified GF if needed.
- Texture Tip: If you prefer a chunkier sauce, toss in diced tomatoes or fresh veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
In a nutshell, Easy Homemade Spaghetti proves that a few pantry staples can yield a meal brimming with flavor and comfort. It’s the ideal blend of robust sauce, tender noodles, and sweet family moments around the table. Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this dish guarantees satisfied appetites and happy hearts!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely—fettuccine or penne will work just as well, though cooking times may vary.2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of water or broth.3. Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can add extra nutrition and flavor.4. Is ground turkey an option?
Yes. It creates a lighter profile. Just adjust seasoning if needed to match the turkey’s milder taste.5. How do I make it spicier?
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add hot sauce for a fiery kick.Easy Homemade Spaghetti
Ingredients
Ground Beef (450g / ~1 lb)
- A bit of fat adds flavor but you can go lean if preferred.
Salt (½ tsp)
- Essential for enhancing the natural richness of the beef.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp)
- Adds mild heat and depth to the sauce.
Beef Broth (1 can, ~420ml / ~14.75 oz)
- Full-salt version recommended for a bold savory backbone.
Tomato Sauce (1 can, ~225g / ~8 oz, with garlic/oregano/basil)
- Infuses an herby note without extra steps.
Tomato Paste (1 can, ~170g / ~6 oz, Italian herb variety)
- Concentrated flavor that thickens and intensifies the sauce.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Delivers that beloved garlicky essence to the sauce.
Granulated Sugar (2 tsp)
- Subtly balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp)
- A convenient blend of dried oregano basil, and other herbs.
Thin Spaghetti Noodles (1 box, ~454g / ~16 oz)
- Coats evenly with sauce ensuring flavorful bites.
Instructions
Brown the Beef
- Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Crumble in the ground beef; add salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Drain any excess grease.
Build the Sauce
- To the browned beef, add beef broth, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Stir in minced garlic, sugar, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
Boil the Pasta
- About 10–15 minutes before the sauce finishes, cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain (no rinse needed).
Combine & Serve
- Gently fold the cooked noodles into the simmered sauce until well coated.
- Plate and serve hot. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if you like extra cheesy goodness.
Notes
Gluten-Free Variation: Swap regular pasta for a gluten-free alternative. Also check that your sauce ingredients (especially broth and canned items) are certified GF if needed.
Texture Tip: If you prefer a chunkier sauce, toss in diced tomatoes or fresh veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.