Quick Description
This High-Protein Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is a comforting, family-favorite meal made with savory ground beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with garlic, onions, and herbs. Served over tender spaghetti and finished with Parmesan, it’s simple, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Onion & Garlic
Add chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce
Stir in:
- Crushed tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Oregano
- Basil
- Salt
- Pepper
Mix well.
5. Simmer
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Finish
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Serve
Serve sauce over spaghetti. Top with extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 520
Protein: 36g
Carbs: 55g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 9g
Benefits
- High-Protein Meal – beef + Parmesan provide excellent protein
- Hearty & Filling
- Budget-Friendly Ingredients
- Great for Meal Prep
- Kid-Approved Classic
Additional Notes
- Use ground turkey for a leaner version
- Add red pepper flakes for heat
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies
- Whole-wheat pasta boosts fiber and protein
Dietary Info
High-Protein: ✅
Dairy-Free: ❌
Gluten-Free: ❌ (unless using GF pasta)
Low-Carb: ❌
Keto-Friendly: ❌
Brief Introduction
Spaghetti with meat sauce is one of those timeless recipes everyone loves. It’s easy, reliable, and always satisfying. This version is rich, thick, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Cook pasta
- Brown beef
- Add onion & garlic
- Stir in tomatoes & spices
- Simmer
- Add cheese
- Serve hot
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Ground Beef:
Use 90/10 lean or substitute turkey or chicken.
Tomato Paste:
Thickens the sauce and deepens flavor.
Parmesan:
Adds protein and richness.
Spaghetti:
Swap for penne, rotini, or protein pasta.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Cheesy baked spaghetti
- Spicy arrabbiata style
- Creamy meat sauce (add splash of cream)
- Italian sausage version
Serve With
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate: 4 days
Freeze: 2 months (sauce only)
Reheat: stovetop or microwave
FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze the sauce?
Absolutely.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, blend and simmer longer.
Optional Personal Story
This is one of those meals I make when I want something comforting without thinking too hard. It always disappears fast and the leftovers are even better.
