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Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef

This recipe has been handed down from my mother. It is a family favorite and will not be replaced! (Definite husband pleaser!) Serve over any variety of hot cooked pasta.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 people
Calories 1615.6 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven For browning meat and simmering sauce
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula For stirring and breaking up meat
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Chef's knife For chopping vegetables
  • 1 Measuring Spoons For dried herbs and spices

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small green bell pepper diced
  • 1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes
  • 1 16 ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Gather all ingredients. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
  • Combine ground beef, onion, garlic, and green pepper in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook and stir until meat is browned and crumbly and vegetables are tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain grease. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
  • Stir diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste into the pan. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer spaghetti sauce for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
  • Serve hot and enjoy! DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS

Notes

To elevate this classic, consider adding a bay leaf and a splash of dry red wine (like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon) to the simmering sauce for an extra layer of complexity. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Ensure the ground beef is well-browned and the vegetables are tender before adding the tomato products; this builds a robust flavor base. Don't skimp on the simmering time; a full hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For an even richer taste, incorporate a Parmesan rind during the simmer and remove before serving. Finish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant aroma and presentation.