🍝 Spaghetti with Minced Meat Sauce
🍽️ Servings: 4
⏱️ Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30–40 mins | Total: ~45 mins
🧾 Ingredients:
For the meat sauce:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 medium carrot, finely grated or diced (optional)
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1 lb (450 g) minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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½ tsp sugar (balances acidity)
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1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the pasta:
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12 oz (350 g) spaghetti
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Salt, for pasta water
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Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook the spaghetti until al dente (check package for timing).
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Drain and set aside. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
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In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add the onion (and carrot if using). Cook for 5 minutes until soft.
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Stir in the garlic and cook 1 minute more.
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Add the minced meat. Break it up and cook until browned and no longer pink.
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Stir in the tomato paste, then add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, and seasonings.
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Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and become rich.
3. Combine & Serve:
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Toss cooked spaghetti with the sauce or serve the sauce on top.
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Garnish with Parmesan and fresh herbs, if desired.
🍷 Serving Suggestions:
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Side of garlic bread or a green salad
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Pair with a red wine like Chianti or Merlot
Would you like a one-pot version, or a way to make it spicier or vegetarian?