Yummy Old-School Spaghetti Recipe

This classic spaghetti recipe brings back the traditional flavors of homemade pasta sauce, slow-simmered for a rich and comforting taste!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 450g (1 lb) ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 can (800g / 28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (400g / 14 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ cup water or beef broth

For the Pasta:

• 450g (1 lb) spaghetti
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

For Serving:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Make the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and water/broth.
5. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and spaghetti.
2. Cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

3. Assemble & Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf from the sauce.
2. Toss the spaghetti with the sauce or serve it on top.
3. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs.

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Conclusion:

This yummy old-school spaghetti recipe brings classic comfort to the table with rich tomato sauce, flavorful herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Enjoy a taste of tradition with every bite!

Tips:

✔ Let the sauce simmer longer for deeper flavor!
✔ Make it meaty by using both ground beef & sausage.
✔ Add veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for extra texture.

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Spaghetti Cooking Tips

1. Salt the Water: Add a good amount of salt to the boiling water before adding the pasta. It brings out the pasta’s flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente (firm to the bite) for the best texture.
3. Save Pasta Water: Before draining, keep a cup of pasta water. It helps make the sauce cling better to the spaghetti.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Let your tomato sauce simmer for at least 15–20 minutes to deepen the flavor.
5. Add Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil or parsley at the end for a fresh touch.
6. Mix Before Serving: Toss the spaghetti with the sauce before serving, so it’s well coated.
7. Top It Right: Add grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil on top for extra flavor.