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.
\nIngredients
\n- \n
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean) \n
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti \n
- 2 tbsp olive oil \n
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped \n
- 2 cloves garlic, minced \n
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce \n
- 1 tsp salt \n
- ½ tsp black pepper \n
- 1 tsp garlic powder \n
- 1 tsp paprika \n
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) \n
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped \n
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese \n
Step-by-Step Instructions
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- 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. \n
- 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. \n
- 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. \n
- 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. \n
- Combine with pasta: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes. \n
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately. \n
Spice | \nRole in Recipe | \nWhen to Add | \nQuantity per Pound of Beef | \n
---|---|---|---|
Salt | \nEnhances overall flavor | \nBefore browning and after sauce addition | \n¾ tsp total | \n
Black Pepper | \nAdds subtle heat and complexity | \nBefore browning | \n½ tsp | \n
Garlic Powder | \nProvides deep savory notes | \nBefore browning | \n1 tsp | \n
Paprika | \nImparts smoky sweetness | \nBefore browning | \n1 tsp | \n
Red Pepper Flakes | \nDelivers controlled heat | \nBefore browning | \n½ tsp (optional) | \n
FAQs
\nCan I use ground turkey instead of beef?
\nYes! 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.
\nHow do I store leftovers?
\nStore 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.
\nWhat if my sauce is too thin?
\nSimmer 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.
\nCan I make this gluten-free?
\nYes! Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free. Check all other ingredients for hidden gluten sources.
\nConclusion
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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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