Old-School Spaghetti with Ground Beef Recipe
Spaghetti is a timeless comfort food loved worldwide. This classic, no-frills “old-school spaghetti” uses ground beef as the star ingredient, making it a simple, hearty dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something nostalgic. Let’s dive into its rich history, benefits, and, of course, the recipe!
History of Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Spaghetti originated in Italy and became popular in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to Italian immigrants. While traditional Italian recipes often use pork or a mix of meats, Americans adapted the dish by emphasizing ground beef. Over time, this “spaghetti with ground beef” style became a staple in many households, embodying simplicity and flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Sauce:
• Ground Beef: 1 lb (lean)
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp
• Crushed Tomatoes: 28 oz can
• Beef Broth or Water: 1 cup
• Dried Oregano: 1 tsp
• Dried Basil: 1 tsp
• Sugar: 1 tsp (to balance acidity)
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black Pepper: ½ tsp
For the Spaghetti:
• Spaghetti Pasta: 1 lb
• Salt: For boiling water
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Optional, for topping
Instructions and Methods
1. Prepare the Sauce
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Remove excess grease if necessary.
• Add onion and garlic to the beef. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
• Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
• Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
2. Simmer the Sauce
• Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Cook the Spaghetti
• In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt generously (it should taste like the sea).
• Cook spaghetti according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain but do not rinse.
4. Combine
• Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Serve
• Plate the spaghetti, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot.
Benefits of Old-School Spaghetti
1. Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients found in most kitchens.
2. Nostalgic Comfort: Reminiscent of family meals and childhood memories.
3. Protein-Packed: Ground beef provides a good dose of protein.
4. Customizable: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance nutrition.
5. Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners without much effort.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 420
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
Lovers of Old-School Spaghetti
This dish is adored by traditionalists who prefer simplicity over complex flavors. It’s especially popular among:
1. Families seeking a reliable dinner option.
2. College students looking for affordable meals.
3. Home chefs revisiting classic recipes from childhood.
Conclusion
Old-school spaghetti with ground beef is a culinary classic that never goes out of style. Its simplicity, rich flavor, and ease of preparation make it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in comfort food on a quiet evening, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and enjoy a timeless dish that connects us all through its delicious simplicity!