**The Ultimate Spaghetti Recipe with Meat for a Hearty Italian Feast**
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the classic spaghetti recipe with meat. This hearty Italian meal is not only delicious but also incredib……
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the classic spaghetti recipe with meat. This hearty Italian meal is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, making it a favorite for family dinners and special occasions alike. In this article, we will provide a detailed description of the ultimate spaghetti recipe with meat, ensuring that you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen.
### Ingredients
To make the ultimate spaghetti recipe with meat, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 1 pound of ground beef (you can also use ground pork, turkey, or a mix)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 ounces) of tomato paste
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of freshly chopped parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
### Instructions
1. **Cook the Spaghetti**
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. **Prepare the Meat Sauce**
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
3. **Brown the Meat**
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue to cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. **Combine Ingredients**
Once the meat is browned, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine. Add the sugar, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. **Simmer the Sauce**
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let the sauce simmer, the more the flavors will meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
6. **Finish the Sauce**
Just before serving, stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. **Serve the Dish**
To serve the ultimate spaghetti recipe with meat, place a generous portion of spaghetti on each plate and top with a hearty ladle of meat sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
### Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Recipe with Meat
- **Quality Ingredients**: Using high-quality ingredients, especially the tomatoes and meat, will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- **Simmer Time**: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a longer period will deepen the flavors. If you have the time, let it simmer for up to an hour.
- **Seasoning**: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Everyone's palate is different, so feel free to add more herbs or spices as you see fit.
- **Pasta Water**: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. If your sauce is too thick, you can use the starchy pasta water to thin it out without diluting the flavor.
By following this detailed recipe, you can create the ultimate spaghetti recipe with meat that will impress your family and friends. This dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a comforting and hearty meal that is sure to satisfy. Enjoy your cooking and buon appetito!