🍝 Old School Spaghetti with Ground Beef (No Sausage)
Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about a pot of old-school spaghetti simmering on the stove — the aroma of garlic, onions, and rich tomato sauce filling the kitchen. This classic dish, made with simple ingredients and no sausage, brings back memories of family dinners, cozy Sundays, and second helpings. It’s hearty, affordable, and timeless — proof that sometimes, less really is more.
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Ingredients
For the Sauce:
– 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean preferred)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
– 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– ½ tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
For the Pasta:
– 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti noodles
– 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
For Serving:
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
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Instructions & Method
1. Cook the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Aromatics:
Stir in chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce:
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well. Then mix in sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Add Worcestershire sauce if using.
4. Simmer for Flavor:
Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let the sauce simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.
5. Cook the Spaghetti:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain but don’t rinse.
6. Combine:
Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce pot. Toss gently to coat every strand of pasta with that savory, meaty sauce.
7. Serve:
Plate the spaghetti hot, sprinkle with Parmesan, and garnish with parsley or basil if desired.
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History
Spaghetti with meat sauce traces its roots to Italian-American kitchens of the early 20th century. Immigrants adapted traditional ragù alla bolognese using the ingredients they had — canned tomatoes and ground beef instead of slow-cooked cuts. Over time, this simple adaptation became a beloved staple across the United States, often dubbed “Mom’s Spaghetti,” immortalized in homes, diners, and even pop culture.
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Benefits
– High in protein: The ground beef provides a solid dose of protein for muscle repair and energy.
– Comfort food: Reduces stress and enhances mood through familiar flavors.
– Budget-friendly: Made with pantry staples that stretch to feed a family.
– Versatile: You can add vegetables or swap noodles for whole grain or gluten-free versions.
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Formation (Serving Idea)
Layer your spaghetti in deep plates, twirl it with a fork, and let the sauce cling beautifully. Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a full nostalgic meal. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-worthy touch.
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Nutrition (Per Serving Approximate)
– Calories: 520 kcal
– Protein: 28 g
– Carbohydrates: 55 g
– Fat: 18 g
– Fiber: 6 g
– Sodium: 780 mg
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Lovers’ Note ❤️
This dish isn’t just a meal — it’s a memory. It’s the smell of Sunday dinners, laughter around the table, and the comfort of simplicity. Spaghetti lovers cherish this old-school version because it feels like home — warm, rich, and perfectly imperfect.
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Conclusion
Old-school spaghetti with ground beef stands the test of time for one reason: it’s made with love and simplicity. No fancy ingredients, no shortcuts — just honest cooking that fills your heart and your stomach. Whether it’s for family, friends, or someone special, this dish says, “You’re home.”
Enjoy every bite — the old-school way! ❤️🍝