Old-School Spaghetti Recipe

Spaghetti is a timeless, comforting dish that has stood the test of time. This old-school spaghetti recipe harks back to the simple yet flavorful pasta dishes many of us grew up enjoying. With a hearty meat sauce made from ground beef or turkey, combined with aromatic garlic and herbs, this spaghetti is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or need a satisfying dish for guests, this recipe guarantees classic Italian flavors with minimal effort. The addition of Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes elevates the dish, offering layers of texture and taste in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (depending on preference for richer or leaner meat)
• 1 small onion, chopped finely
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (adds depth and aroma)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (use good-quality tomatoes for the best flavor)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (for a thicker, richer sauce)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (essential for that authentic Italian flavor)
• 1 tsp dried basil (adds a fresh, aromatic touch)
• Salt and pepper to taste (season generously but to your preference)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing and adding richness to the sauce)
• Parmesan cheese (for serving and extra flavor)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente texture. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain the water, reserving a small cup of the pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later. Set the spaghetti aside, keeping it warm.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

While the spaghetti is cooking, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent the onion from browning. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter quickly.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Use a spoon or spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is fully browned, which will take about 7-10 minutes. If using beef, you might want to drain any excess fat from the skillet at this point to keep the sauce from becoming too greasy.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Once the meat is browned, add the can of crushed tomatoes and 1 tbsp of tomato paste. Stir well to combine. The tomato paste helps to thicken the sauce and intensifies the flavor. Next, sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Allow the sauce to come to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the sauce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Toss with Spaghetti

Once the sauce has simmered and thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the sauce seems too thick, you can stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is evenly coated with the sauce. Let it sit for a minute so that the pasta can absorb some of the sauce’s flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the spaghetti and sauce, making sure to distribute the meat sauce evenly. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

COOKING Note:

If you prefer a richer sauce, you can let the sauce simmer for an additional 10 minutes or add a splash of red wine during the sautéing of the onions for extra depth of flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey for beef if you prefer a leaner meal. For an extra layer of flavor, toss in some sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers while cooking the meat.

Serving Suggestions:

Old-School Spaghetti is best served with some crusty garlic bread or buttered dinner rolls on the side. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette pairs perfectly to balance the richness of the pasta. For a more indulgent experience, you could serve it alongside a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, to complement the tomato-based sauce.

Tips:

• Pasta water trick: Always reserve a little pasta water before draining. This starchy water is perfect for loosening the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• For more flavor: Toast the dried oregano and basil in the olive oil for a minute before adding the onions. This will bring out their natural oils and intensify the flavor of the sauce.
• Healthier swap: Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier version of this dish. You can also reduce the amount of meat or substitute it with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.
• Extra veggies: You can add sautéed zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 550 per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Sodium: 650mg (depending on how much salt you add)

FAQs:

1. Can I make this spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can make both the sauce and spaghetti ahead of time. Keep the sauce and pasta separate until you’re ready to serve. Reheat the sauce on the stove and toss with freshly warmed pasta for the best results.

2. Can I freeze the sauce?

Absolutely! The meat sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

3. How can I make the sauce less acidic?

If the sauce tastes too acidic, you can stir in a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the flavors.

4. What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian option.

Conclusion:

This Old-School Spaghetti recipe is the perfect blend of nostalgia and hearty flavors. With its rich meat sauce, savory seasonings, and classic pasta, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a family gathering, this simple yet satisfying recipe will always hit the spot. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal, and don’t forget the Parmesan cheese on top!

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