introduction
Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of the South to your dinner table. It’s a heartwarming meal that combines savory ground beef, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.
why make this recipe
This recipe stands out because it is simple, delicious, and satisfying. The ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking process is straightforward. Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce is not just a dish; it’s a comforting meal that evokes feelings of home. Plus, everyone loves a good plate of spaghetti!
how to make Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spaghetti noodles
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salad (for serving)
- Garlic bread (for serving)
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce.
- Add sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Simmer the sauce for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
- Serve the sauce over the spaghetti noodles, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired, alongside a salad and garlic bread.
how to serve Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce
To serve Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce, place the cooked spaghetti on a plate and ladle the rich meat sauce over the top. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch. Don’t forget to add a side salad and some warm garlic bread to complete the meal.
how to store Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce
Store any leftover Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the sauce. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce
- For extra flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture.
- Using fresh herbs instead of dried can enhance the taste even more.
- Don’t forget to taste your sauce as it simmers. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking.
variation
To add a twist to this recipe, consider adding some cooked Italian sausage with the ground beef for a richer flavor. You can also swap out the spaghetti noodles for whole grain or gluten-free options if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead. Just heat it up before serving. The flavors will deepen overnight!
2. What can I serve with Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even some cheesy breadsticks.
3. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter version of this dish.
Southern Spaghetti Meat Sauce
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 1 lb ground beef Savory meat base for the sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic flavor enhancer
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes Main sauce ingredient
- 6 oz tomato paste Thickens and intensifies the tomato flavor
- 15 oz tomato sauce Adds additional moisture and flavor
- 2 tbsp sugar Balances acidity of the tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried basil Herb for flavor
- 1 tsp dried oregano Herb for flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings
For serving
- Spaghetti noodles Main dish component
- Parmesan cheese (optional) Topping for extra flavor
- Salad Side dish
- Garlic bread Side for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Cooking the sauce
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce.
- Add sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Simmer the sauce for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking the spaghetti
- Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
Serving
- Serve the sauce over the spaghetti noodles, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired, alongside a salad and garlic bread.