Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef

Nothing says comfort food like a rich, savory spaghetti sauce made from scratch. This easy homemade spaghetti sauce with ground beef delivers deep flavor, hearty texture, and classic Italian-inspired satisfaction in under an hour. Ideal for weeknight dinners or batch cooking for the freezer, this sauce will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Meat Sauce

This recipe combines simple pantry ingredients to create a flavorful meat sauce that rivals any Italian restaurant version. It’s perfect for tossing with pasta, layering in lasagna, or spooning over roasted vegetables or stuffed peppers.

With a balance of crushed tomatoes, herbs, and ground beef, the sauce is hearty yet easy to make. It’s freezer-friendly and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

Key Ingredients

Ground beef: Use 80/20 for a richer flavor, but leaner beef can be used.
Onion and garlic: Provide the savory aromatic base.
Tomato paste, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes: The trio builds texture and depth.
Dried oregano and basil: Essential Italian herbs for authentic flavor.
Sugar (optional): Helps balance the acidity of tomatoes.
Olive oil: Enhances flavor while sautéing.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

Optional Additions and Substitutions

Red wine: A splash of dry red wine can enhance depth.
Green peppers or mushrooms: Add more vegetables for flavor and texture.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick.
Italian sausage or ground pork: Mix with beef or replace it entirely.
Fresh herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley at the end for brightness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat for a lighter sauce or leave it in for added richness.

2. Add Aromatics

Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Mix in Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to bring out its flavor.

4. Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in dried oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Simmer

Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

6. Serve

Serve the sauce hot over cooked spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, or any pasta of your choice. Garnish with grated parmesan and fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Toss with spaghetti and top with grated cheese
Use in classic lasagna or baked ziti
Serve as a topping for stuffed bell peppers or eggplant
Pair with garlic bread and a Caesar salad for a complete meal
Spoon over cooked gnocchi or rice

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions in zip-top bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 194
Protein: 13g
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 13g

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down thoroughly to achieve the same thickness and richness. You can peel, seed, and crush fresh tomatoes to substitute for canned crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.

How do I make this sauce vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for texture and protein.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely. This sauce tastes even better the next day. It’s perfect for meal prep and freezer meals.

How do I thicken spaghetti sauce?

Simmer uncovered to let the sauce reduce, or add a small spoonful of tomato paste for a thicker consistency.

Is sugar necessary?

Not always, but a small amount of sugar can mellow the acidity of the tomatoes. You can omit it if preferred.

Internal Linking Suggestions (from secretsofthegreengarden.com)

“How to Grow Fresh Basil at Home”: Use your homegrown herbs to flavor this sauce.
“DIY Herb Garden for Beginners”: Learn which herbs thrive in containers and how to keep them ready for your pasta dishes.
“10 Easy Ways to Store Fresh Herbs Without Losing Flavor”: Maximize your herb harvest for future meals.

External Authority Resources

Final Thoughts

This homemade spaghetti sauce with ground beef is a timeless recipe you’ll keep returning to. With simple ingredients and adaptable flavors, it’s easy to prepare, satisfying to eat, and perfect for freezing. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this meat sauce delivers rich, savory comfort in every bite.