Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Pasta:

• 400g (14 oz) spaghetti

• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Meat Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 400g (14 oz) ground beef

• 1 can (400g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil, chopped)

• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ½ cup water or beef broth

For Garnish:

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Add salt and spaghetti.

3. Cook according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes) until al dente.

4. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.

3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

5. Drain excess fat if necessary.

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Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

1. Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.

2. Add oregano, basil, sugar, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour in water or beef broth and stir well.

4. Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce.

2. Toss well to coat evenly.

3. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

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Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer to plates.

2. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil.

3. Serve hot.

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Tips for Best Flavor

• Simmer the sauce longer (30–40 minutes) for deeper flavor.

• Add a splash of red wine when cooking the beef for richness.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for better taste.