Easy Spaghetti with Ground Beef Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

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This easy spaghetti with ground beef recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a flavorful dish that the whole family will love.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
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• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
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• 2 tbsp olive oil
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• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
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• 2 cloves garlic, minced
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• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
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• 1 tsp salt
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• ½ tsp black pepper
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• 1 tsp garlic powder
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• 1 tsp paprika
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• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
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• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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2. Prepare the sauce base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
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3. Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until fully browned.
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4. Add garlic and sauce: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in marinara sauce and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
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5. Combine with pasta: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes.
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6. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
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Spice	Role in Recipe	When to Add	Quantity per Pound of Beef
Salt	Enhances overall flavor	Before browning and after sauce addition	¾ tsp total
Black Pepper	Adds subtle heat and complexity	Before browning	½ tsp
Garlic Powder	Provides deep savory notes	Before browning	1 tsp
Paprika	Imparts smoky sweetness	Before browning	1 tsp
Red Pepper Flakes	Delivers controlled heat	Before browning	½ tsp (optional)

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FAQs

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Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

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Yes! Ground turkey works well but cooks faster. Reduce cooking time by 2 minutes and add 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent dryness. Seasoning quantities remain the same.

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How do I store leftovers?

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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Freezing is not recommended as pasta becomes mushy.

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What if my sauce is too thin?

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Simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes to reduce. For quicker thickening, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the sauce until thickened.

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Can I make this gluten-free?

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Yes! Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free. Check all other ingredients for hidden gluten sources.

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Conclusion

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With this simple recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality spaghetti dish at home in under 30 minutes. The key is layering flavors at the right stages - seasoning the beef properly before browning and letting the sauce simmer to develop depth. Don't be afraid to adjust spices to your taste, and always taste before serving!

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