There’s nothing more comforting than a homemade spaghetti meat sauce simmered to perfection! This rich, meaty, and flavorful sauce is packed with ground beef, Italian herbs, tomatoes, and garlic, making it perfect for tossing with spaghetti or layering in lasagna. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that tastes even better the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Restaurant-Quality Flavor – Slow-simmered, bold, and rich.
✔ Easy & Budget-Friendly – Made with pantry staples and simple ingredients.
✔ Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly – Perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights.
✔ Versatile – Serve over pasta, zoodles, or in stuffed peppers!
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- ½ cup beef broth (or red wine for depth)
- 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds depth)
- 1 bay leaf (for extra flavor)
For Serving:
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Drain excess grease and return to heat.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add chopped onions and cook until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Seasonings
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Add beef broth (or red wine), sugar, Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf.
- Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Simmer for Maximum Flavor
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove bay leaf and discard.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Serving Suggestions
🍷 With Garlic Bread – Pair with cheesy garlic breadsticks or warm buttery rolls.
🥗 With a Side Salad – A Caesar salad or a simple Italian salad makes a great side.
🧀 With Extra Cheese – Top with shredded mozzarella or ricotta for a creamy touch.
Cooking Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Extra Meaty:
- Add ½ lb Italian sausage for a richer flavor.
- Stir in diced pepperoni or pancetta for an extra kick.
✔ Want a Creamy Sauce?
- Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or ½ cup ricotta cheese before serving.
✔ Need a Low-Carb Option?
- Serve over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice.
✔ Want It Spicy?
- Add extra red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
✔ Prefer a Thicker Sauce?
- Simmer longer to reduce liquid, or add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Store Leftover Spaghetti Meat Sauce?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I Freeze This Sauce?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the onions/garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
Final Thoughts
This hearty homemade spaghetti meat sauce is a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers bold, authentic flavors every time!
👉 Try it today and enjoy every bite! 🍝
