Old-Fashioned Spaghetti is the perfect dish to bring back nostalgic feelings of home-cooked goodness. With its roots firmly planted in tradition, this dish combines the hearty flavor of tender pasta coated in a sumptuous, slow-simmered meat sauce. It’s the kind of meal that warms the heart and satisfies a hungry appetite — ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in. There’s something incredibly comforting in its simplicity, bringing together rich flavors and textures in a manner that feels both decadent and familiar.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian cuisine or just looking for a delightful recipe that pleases everyone at the table, this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti ticks all the boxes. It’s an easy-to-make dish that requires minimal ingredients yet delivers a burst of Italian flair with every bite. The slow-cooked meat sauce, seasoned to perfection with herbs and spices, envelops the al dente pasta in a coating of deliciousness that needs no introduction. One taste, and you’ll be coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Spaghetti

Comforting Flavor: Each bite is a harmony of tender pasta and savory meat sauce.
Simple to Prepare: A straightforward recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual weeknight dinners or special family gatherings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing your kitchen for this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti will set you up for success. Begin by clearing your workspace to accommodate the variety of ingredients involved. Ensure you have a large saucepan or Dutch oven to accommodate the generous amounts of sauce. Additionally, a pot for boiling the pasta to al dente is essential. A sharp knife will come in handy for chopping onions and mincing garlic, while a wooden spoon or spatula will aid in sautéing and mixing the sauce gently as it simmers.

Organize all ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process. Have measuring spoons at the ready, and don’t forget a colander for draining the pasta once it’s cooked to perfection. For a successful sauce, use medium heat and occasionally stir to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. These preparations ensure that cooking this delicious spaghetti dish is as seamless and enjoyable as the meal itself.

Ingredients

1 pound Spaghetti, cooked al dente
1 pound Ground Beef
1 medium Onion, finely chopped
4 cloves Garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
28 ounces Canned Crushed Tomatoes
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
1/2 cup Beef Broth or Water
1 teaspoon Dried Basil
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 teaspoon Sugar (optional)
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan Cheese for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, which should take about five minutes. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, releasing its aromatic fragrance.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, place the ground beef into the saucepan with the sautéed onions and garlic. Use a spoon to break apart the meat and cook until it is fully browned. Carefully drain any excess fat that has accumulated in the saucepan.

Step 3: Develop the Sauce

Introduce crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar into the saucepan with the beef mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Once the sauce has begun to simmer, reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the saucepan and let it gently cook for at least 30 minutes. During this time, stir the sauce occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil the spaghetti in salted water until it reaches al dente perfection. Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining it.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Scatter the freshly cooked spaghetti over the sauce and toss to combine. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water for a sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta strands. Top with fresh parsley and serve with generous helpings of grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations

Protein: Try adding Italian sausage or ground turkey for a different twist.
Vegetables: Include bell peppers or mushrooms for added depth of flavor and texture.
Spices: Experiment with red pepper flakes or fennel seeds for an extra kick.

Cooking Notes

For a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine.
If time allows, let the sauce simmer longer for a more developed flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serve with a glass of robust red wine to enhance the meal’s flavors.

Tips

Double the sauce recipe and freeze portions for a quick future meal.
For a vegan option, substitute beef with lentils and vegetable broth.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sauce can be prepared ahead and actually tastes better after sitting for a day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can substitute beef broth with water in a pinch, but for a richer flavor, consomme or mushroom broth are great alternatives.

How can I reduce the sodium content of the dish?

To lower sodium, use low-sodium beef broth and canned tomatoes. Additionally, adjust the salt amount to your taste.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile. Use a tablespoon of fresh basil and oregano for each teaspoon of dried herbs.

Conclusion

Embracing the comfort and familiarity of this Old-Fashioned Spaghetti recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a home-cooked meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you can create a heartwarming dish that will receive rave reviews at your dinner table. We encourage you to try different variations and make it your own. Don’t hesitate to share your experience and tweaks in the comments below. Enjoy the classic simplicity and cherish those moments around the dining table!