Old-Fashioned Spaghetti: A Classic Comfort Dish
Spaghetti is a timeless dish loved by many, and this old-fashioned spaghetti recipe brings the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and comforting textures. Made with a hearty meat sauce, tender pasta, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a homemade Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup green bell peppers, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 small can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup water
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- Salt (for boiling water)
For Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion, green bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce until evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This old-fashioned spaghetti recipe brings back the nostalgia of home-cooked meals made with love. The combination of rich tomato sauce, savory beef, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish a true comfort food. Enjoy!
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
